Meteorites contain organic molecules of extraterrestrial origin, including amino acids. Enantiomers in these molecules can provide evidence of life, with specific forms indicating extraterrestrial origin. Analysis of organic molecules in celestial bodies offers insights into their origins and potential for extraterrestrial life.
Organic molecules found in meteorites: Meteorites such as the Murchison Meteorite have been found to contain a variety of organic molecules, including amino acids, sugars, and polyols. These molecules are evidence of extraterrestrial origins and their presence suggests that organic materials could have been delivered to Earth through meteorite impacts.
Enantiomers in organic molecules: Life on Earth uses specific enantiomers of organic molecules, like amino acids, to build proteins. The presence of both left-handed and right-handed enantiomers in meteorites like Murchison indicates an extraterrestrial origin for these organic compounds.
Potential evidence of life: The discovery of specific enantiomers, especially if all-L or all-D forms are found, in Martian soil or meteorites would be significant evidence of life. This highlights how the study of organic molecules in celestial bodies can provide insights into their origins and the potential for extraterrestrial life.
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