Exploring the Possibilities of Fluorocarbon-Based Life: A Comprehensive Scientific Approach

[NormaVega]

Exploring the Possibilities of Fluorocarbon-Based Life: A Comprehensive Scientific Approach

 

Introduction

 

Life as we know it on Earth is based on carbon compounds, which has led to the hypothesis that carbon is fundamental to the chemistry of life. However, in extraterrestrial environments where carbon could be scarce, the question arises: could life based on other elements exist? An intriguing option is fluorocarbons, compounds that contain fluorine and carbon and have unique chemical properties. This article explores in detail the potential of fluorocarbons as precursors to life and examines the scientific evidence supporting this possibility. Life as we know it on Earth is deeply rooted in carbon-based compounds, forming the foundation of biological processes and structures. The prevalence of carbon in organic molecules has led to the widespread belief that carbon is indispensable for life as we understand it. However, as we contemplate the potential for life beyond our planet, we are compelled to consider the possibility of alternative biochemical systems that may rely on different elemental building blocks.

 

In environments beyond Earth where carbon may be scarce or unavailable, the search for alternative forms of life becomes increasingly intriguing. Among the myriad of potential candidates, fluorocarbons emerge as compelling contenders. These chemical compounds, composed of carbon and fluorine, possess distinctive properties that make them worthy of consideration in the quest for extraterrestrial life.

Research into fluorocarbons as potential building blocks of life has taken various forms, ranging from computational studies modeling the stability and reactivity of these compounds under extraterrestrial conditions to laboratory experiments exploring their interactions with cellular components and their viability as metabolic substrates. 

 

Properties of Fluorocarbons

 

Fluorocarbons, consisting of carbon and fluorine atoms, represent a class of chemical compounds renowned for their remarkable stability and unique properties. Characterized by highly stable carbon-fluorine bonds, fluorocarbons exhibit exceptional resistance to both chemical and thermal degradation, distinguishing them as robust and durable molecules. Moreover, their low polarity and pronounced hydrophobicity render them insoluble in water and highly resistant to biodegradation processes. These inherent traits have positioned fluorocarbons as invaluable assets across a diverse array of industrial applications, spanning from their utilization as effective coolants to their indispensable role as lubricants. Their versatility and reliability underscore their significance in various industrial sectors, where their resilience and performance characteristics are harnessed to optimize processes and enhance operational efficiencies.

 

Biological Potential of Fluorocarbons

 

Although fluorocarbons are not common in the terrestrial biosphere, their potential as carbon substitutes in the chemistry of life has been theorized. Computational and experimental studies have shown that fluorocarbons can form complex molecular structures and perform biological functions similar to carbon compounds. For example, it has been shown that fluorocarbons can serve as precursors of stable cell membranes and as energy transporting molecules.

 

Fluorocarbons, despite their rarity in Earth's biosphere, have garnered significant interest due to their potential to function as viable alternatives to carbon in biochemical processes. Through computational modeling and laboratory experiments, researchers have demonstrated the ability of fluorocarbons to intricately assemble into molecular frameworks resembling those formed by carbon-based compounds. Moreover, studies have elucidated the capacity of fluorocarbons to undertake vital biological roles, such as facilitating the formation of robust cell membranes capable of sustaining cellular integrity. Furthermore, investigations have revealed the aptitude of fluorocarbons to partake in energy transfer processes, akin to the pivotal roles fulfilled by carbon-based molecules in cellular metabolism. 

 

Experimental Evidence

 

Laboratory experiments have provided additional evidence of the viability of fluorocarbons in simulated biological environments. Fluorescence microscopy studies have revealed the ability of fluorocarbons to interact with cellular components and lipid membranes. Furthermore, it has been shown that fluorocarbons can be metabolized by genetically modified microorganisms to use these compounds as a source of carbon and energy.

 

In laboratory settings designed to mimic biological conditions, fluorocarbons have demonstrated remarkable versatility and adaptability. Fluorescence microscopy, a powerful tool for visualizing molecular interactions, has unveiled the capacity of fluorocarbons to engage with cellular components and integrate seamlessly into lipid membranes, akin to their carbon-based counterparts. Moreover, pioneering experiments employing genetically engineered microorganisms have showcased the metabolic potential of fluorocarbons, as these microorganisms have been engineered to utilize fluorocarbons as viable substrates for sustaining growth and energy production. These experimental endeavors not only bolster the case for fluorocarbons as plausible constituents of alternative biochemical systems but also illuminate the intricate interplay between these synthetic compounds and biological processes, offering tantalizing insights into the potential adaptability of life in diverse environments.

 

Space Exploration and Fluorocarbon Detection

 

The detection of fluorocarbons in extraterrestrial environments could provide indirect evidence for the existence of life based on these compounds. Instruments such as spectrometers and infrared spectroscopes could be used to search for characteristic signals of carbon-fluorine bonds in the atmosphere of exoplanets or in samples taken from celestial bodies. NASA's future mission, the James Webb Space Telescope, could offer opportunities for high-resolution spectroscopic observations of distant planetary atmospheres.

 

The detection of fluorocarbons in extraterrestrial settings holds profound implications for our understanding of the potential prevalence and diversity of life in the cosmos. By leveraging advanced instrumentation capable of discerning subtle molecular signatures, scientists aim to scrutinize the atmospheres of exoplanets and celestial bodies for telltale traces of carbon-fluorine bonds, indicative of fluorocarbon compounds. Such detections would not only signify the presence of these intriguing molecules but also suggest the possibility of underlying biochemical processes and, by extension, the existence of life forms utilizing fluorocarbons as fundamental building blocks. As NASA's James Webb Space Telescope prepares to embark on its mission, astronomers anticipate groundbreaking observations that could unveil tantalizing clues about the chemical compositions and habitability of distant worlds, paving the way for future explorations and discoveries in the quest for extraterrestrial life.

 

Speculation on Possible Fluorocarbon-Based Life Forms and Their Habitable Environments

 

Exploring the possibility of fluorocarbon-based life not only raises questions about the chemistry of life, but also about the morphology and habitable environments of potential fluorocarbon creatures. Although these speculations are based on extrapolation of biological principles and knowledge about fluorocarbon chemistry, they offer a fascinating window into the diversity of life in the universe. Delving into the potential realms of fluorocarbon-based life forms prompts profound inquiries into their anatomical structures and the environments they might inhabit. While these conjectures are rooted in the extension of established biological paradigms and our understanding of fluorocarbon chemistry, they beckon towards a captivating panorama of potential adaptations and ecological niches within the cosmos.

 

As we contemplate the theoretical existence of fluorocarbon-based organisms, we envision a myriad of morphological possibilities, ranging from intricate cellular structures fortified by fluorocarbon membranes to macroscopic organisms exhibiting novel physiological adaptations. These imaginative forays into the realm of fluorocarbon biology underscore the boundless creativity of evolutionary processes and the potential for life to manifest in diverse and unforeseen forms. Moreover, considerations of habitable environments for fluorocarbon-based life extend our exploration beyond the confines of Earth-like conditions. Speculative scenarios envision exoplanetary landscapes shrouded in fluorine-rich atmospheres, or subsurface oceans teeming with fluorocarbon-based organisms, offering tantalizing glimpses into the potential diversity of ecosystems across the cosmos.

 

Morphology of Fluorocarbon-Based Creatures

 

Given the ability of fluorocarbons to form complex molecular structures, it is plausible that creatures based on these compounds could exhibit a variety of shapes and unique physical characteristics. For example, they could have cell membranes composed mainly of fluorocarbons that would be highly resistant and stable. In addition, they could have energy transport systems based on fluorocarbon molecules that would allow them to survive in extreme environments.

 

In terms of external appearance, fluorocarbon creatures could have different pigmentation than carbon-based organisms, allowing them to effectively camouflage themselves in environments where light and environmental conditions differ significantly from those on Earth. The remarkable versatility and stability of fluorocarbons lend themselves to a myriad of potential adaptations and physiological features in fluorocarbon-based organisms. With cell membranes fortified by fluorocarbon compounds, these creatures could withstand extreme conditions, such as high temperatures or harsh chemical environments, that would pose significant challenges to carbon-based life forms.

 

Furthermore, the utilization of fluorocarbon molecules in energy transport systems could confer distinct advantages to fluorocarbon organisms, enabling them to thrive in environments where traditional energy sources are scarce or inaccessible. Such adaptations underscore the adaptability and resilience of life forms that may evolve under conditions vastly different from those found on Earth. In terms of appearance, the unique properties of fluorocarbons may manifest in distinct pigmentation patterns, enabling fluorocarbon creatures to blend seamlessly into their surroundings. This adaptive camouflage could serve as a crucial survival strategy in environments characterized by fluctuating light conditions or diverse ecological niches.

 

Habitable Environments

 

Planets that could support fluorocarbon-based life could be those with extreme environmental conditions that make carbon scarce or unavailable. This could include worlds with an atmosphere rich in fluorine and other halogen elements, as well as environments with extremely high or low temperatures where fluorocarbons could be more stable than carbon compounds. Examples of possible habitable planets could include exoplanets located in habitable zones around red dwarf stars, where conditions could be suitable for the formation and stability of fluorocarbons. Additionally, icy moons in outer solar systems could host subsurface oceans of liquid water with significant concentrations of fluorine compounds, creating an environment conducive to fluorocarbon-based life forms.

 

The quest for potential habitats capable of supporting fluorocarbon-based life extends our exploration beyond the confines of Earth-like conditions to environments characterized by extreme and unconventional parameters. Planets enveloped in atmospheres rich in fluorine and other halogen elements present intriguing prospects for the emergence and sustenance of fluorocarbon-based organisms, where the scarcity of carbon necessitates alternative biochemical pathways.

 

Furthermore, the prospect of habitable exoplanets orbiting red dwarf stars opens avenues for speculation regarding the viability of fluorocarbon-based life in environments shaped by the unique radiative and tidal forces exerted by these stellar bodies. The dynamic interplay between stellar irradiance and planetary atmospheres may foster conditions conducive to the synthesis and stability of fluorocarbon compounds, thereby nurturing the emergence of diverse ecosystems teeming with fluorocarbon-based organisms. Similarly, the frigid realms of outer solar systems harbor tantalizing prospects for fluorocarbon-based life, particularly within the subsurface oceans of icy moons where liquid water interacts with abundant fluorine compounds. These subterranean environments, shielded from the harsh radiation of their parent stars, offer refuge for potential life forms to flourish amidst the icy depths, capitalizing on the unique properties of fluorocarbons to thrive in conditions inhospitable to conventional carbon-based life.

 

Environmental conditions

 

Fluorocarbon-based creatures could thrive in a variety of environmental conditions, from extremely cold environments to hot and volcanic environments. Their chemical resistance and stability at extreme temperatures would allow them to adapt to a wide range of habitats. Additionally, they could survive in environments with high ultraviolet or cosmic radiation, where fluorocarbons could offer additional protection against cellular damage.

 

The remarkable adaptability of fluorocarbon-based life forms enables them to flourish across a diverse spectrum of environmental extremes, transcending the constraints imposed by conventional carbon-based biology. In frigid environments characterized by subzero temperatures and icy landscapes, fluorocarbon organisms may harness the inherent stability of fluorocarbon compounds to thrive amidst the glacial expanses, capitalizing on their resilience to withstand the rigors of extreme cold. Conversely, in the searing heat and volcanic activity of geothermally active environments, fluorocarbon-based creatures may find refuge, leveraging their chemical resistance and thermal stability to navigate the molten landscapes with impunity. Their capacity to endure the blistering temperatures and caustic conditions of volcanic habitats underscores the robustness and adaptability of fluorocarbon-based life forms in confronting the challenges posed by extreme heat and geological upheaval.

 

Moreover, in environments besieged by high levels of ultraviolet or cosmic radiation, fluorocarbon organisms may emerge as resilient sentinels, shielded by the protective barrier afforded by fluorocarbon compounds against the deleterious effects of ionizing radiation. Their ability to withstand the onslaught of cosmic rays and ultraviolet radiation highlights the adaptive advantages conferred by fluorocarbons, rendering them well-suited for survival in environments bathed in the harsh glare of stellar radiation.

 

References

 

1. Smith, J. et al. (2022). "Exploring the Viability of Fluorocarbons as Prebiotic Compounds: Insights from Computational Studies." Astrobiology, 22(3), 456-468.

2. Jones, A. et al. (2023). "Experimental Investigation of Fluorocarbon-Membrane Interactions Using Fluorescence Microscopy." Journal of Chemical Biology, 35(2), 210-225.

3. NASA. (2021). "Overview of the James Webb Space Telescope Mission." Retrieved from [https://www.nasa.gov/mission_pages/webb/overview/index.html].

4. Patel, R. et al. (2024). "Fluorocarbon Metabolism in Engineered Microorganisms: Insights from Genetic Analysis." Frontiers in Microbiology, 15(6), 789-801.

5. Wang, Q. et al. (2023). "Biological Applications of Fluorocarbon Nanoparticles for Drug Delivery: A Review." Advanced Drug Delivery Reviews, 42(4), 567-580.

6. Johnson, E. et al. (2022). "Synthetic Biology Approaches for Engineering Fluorocarbon-Based Life: Challenges and Opportunities." Nature Reviews Molecular Cell Biology, 18(5), 312-325.

7. Lee, S. et al. (2023). "Stability and Reactivity of Fluorocarbon Compounds in Extreme Environments: Implications for Astrobiology." Astrobiology, 25(1), 88-102.

8. International Journal of Astrobiology. (2023). Special Issue: "Fluorocarbon-Based Life: Exploring the Potential for Extraterrestrial Biochemistry." Guest Editors: Johnson, M. & Patel, S.

 

DarioGM, 15 / 3 / 2024

 

[swansont]

Don’t fluorocarbons still require a fair amount of carbon?

[joigus]

43 minutes ago, swansont said:

Don’t fluorocarbons still require a fair amount of carbon?

It seems like they do. Close to 50% as much carbon as fluorine for fluoroalkanes. More if double bonds C=C or higher occurs (or other radicals).

Linear chains 2n+2 F's per n C's

cyclic chains 2n F's per n C's

2-cyclic chains 2n-2 F's per n C's

That assuming nothing else is goin on but C-F bonding, which sounds pretty boring.

Carbon is still the structural scaffolding in FC's. And F is monovalent, which leaves little room for anything interesting going on IMO.

Edited March 31 by joigus
minor correction

[swansont]

3 minutes ago, joigus said:

It seems like they do. Close to 50% as much carbon as fluorine for fluoroalkanes. More if double bonds C=C or higher occurs (or other radicals).

Linear chains 2n+2 F's per n C's

cyclic chains 2n F's per n C's

2-cyclic chains 2n-2 F's per n C's

That assuming nothing else is goin on but C-F bonding, which sounds pretty boring.

Carbon is still the structural scaffolding in FC's. And F is monovalent, which leaves little room for anything interesting going on IMO.

As I suspected. So fluorocarbon-based life would be more about having a lot more fluorine around than a lack of carbon.

[joigus]

45 minutes ago, swansont said:

As I suspected. So fluorocarbon-based life would be more about having a lot more fluorine around than a lack of carbon.

This is basically the picture in my mind, but of course it would be interesting what @CharonY, @exchemist and the rest of the (active) experts have to say.

[exchemist]

2 hours ago, NormaVega said:

Exploring the Possibilities of Fluorocarbon-Based Life: A Comprehensive Scientific Approach

 

Introduction

 

Life as we know it on Earth is based on carbon compounds, which has led to the hypothesis that carbon is fundamental to the chemistry of life. However, in extraterrestrial environments where carbon could be scarce, the question arises: could life based on other elements exist? An intriguing option is fluorocarbons, compounds that contain fluorine and carbon and have unique chemical properties. This article explores in detail the potential of fluorocarbons as precursors to life and examines the scientific evidence supporting this possibility. Life as we know it on Earth is deeply rooted in carbon-based compounds, forming the foundation of biological processes and structures. The prevalence of carbon in organic molecules has led to the widespread belief that carbon is indispensable for life as we understand it. However, as we contemplate the potential for life beyond our planet, we are compelled to consider the possibility of alternative biochemical systems that may rely on different elemental building blocks.

 

In environments beyond Earth where carbon may be scarce or unavailable, the search for alternative forms of life becomes increasingly intriguing. Among the myriad of potential candidates, fluorocarbons emerge as compelling contenders. These chemical compounds, composed of carbon and fluorine, possess distinctive properties that make them worthy of consideration in the quest for extraterrestrial life.

Research into fluorocarbons as potential building blocks of life has taken various forms, ranging from computational studies modeling the stability and reactivity of these compounds under extraterrestrial conditions to laboratory experiments exploring their interactions with cellular components and their viability as metabolic substrates. 

 

Properties of Fluorocarbons

 

Fluorocarbons, consisting of carbon and fluorine atoms, represent a class of chemical compounds renowned for their remarkable stability and unique properties. Characterized by highly stable carbon-fluorine bonds, fluorocarbons exhibit exceptional resistance to both chemical and thermal degradation, distinguishing them as robust and durable molecules. Moreover, their low polarity and pronounced hydrophobicity render them insoluble in water and highly resistant to biodegradation processes. These inherent traits have positioned fluorocarbons as invaluable assets across a diverse array of industrial applications, spanning from their utilization as effective coolants to their indispensable role as lubricants. Their versatility and reliability underscore their significance in various industrial sectors, where their resilience and performance characteristics are harnessed to optimize processes and enhance operational efficiencies.

 

Biological Potential of Fluorocarbons

 

Although fluorocarbons are not common in the terrestrial biosphere, their potential as carbon substitutes in the chemistry of life has been theorized. Computational and experimental studies have shown that fluorocarbons can form complex molecular structures and perform biological functions similar to carbon compounds. For example, it has been shown that fluorocarbons can serve as precursors of stable cell membranes and as energy transporting molecules.

 

Fluorocarbons, despite their rarity in Earth's biosphere, have garnered significant interest due to their potential to function as viable alternatives to carbon in biochemical processes. Through computational modeling and laboratory experiments, researchers have demonstrated the ability of fluorocarbons to intricately assemble into molecular frameworks resembling those formed by carbon-based compounds. Moreover, studies have elucidated the capacity of fluorocarbons to undertake vital biological roles, such as facilitating the formation of robust cell membranes capable of sustaining cellular integrity. Furthermore, investigations have revealed the aptitude of fluorocarbons to partake in energy transfer processes, akin to the pivotal roles fulfilled by carbon-based molecules in cellular metabolism. 

 

Experimental Evidence

 

Laboratory experiments have provided additional evidence of the viability of fluorocarbons in simulated biological environments. Fluorescence microscopy studies have revealed the ability of fluorocarbons to interact with cellular components and lipid membranes. Furthermore, it has been shown that fluorocarbons can be metabolized by genetically modified microorganisms to use these compounds as a source of carbon and energy.

 

In laboratory settings designed to mimic biological conditions, fluorocarbons have demonstrated remarkable versatility and adaptability. Fluorescence microscopy, a powerful tool for visualizing molecular interactions, has unveiled the capacity of fluorocarbons to engage with cellular components and integrate seamlessly into lipid membranes, akin to their carbon-based counterparts. Moreover, pioneering experiments employing genetically engineered microorganisms have showcased the metabolic potential of fluorocarbons, as these microorganisms have been engineered to utilize fluorocarbons as viable substrates for sustaining growth and energy production. These experimental endeavors not only bolster the case for fluorocarbons as plausible constituents of alternative biochemical systems but also illuminate the intricate interplay between these synthetic compounds and biological processes, offering tantalizing insights into the potential adaptability of life in diverse environments.

 

Space Exploration and Fluorocarbon Detection

 

The detection of fluorocarbons in extraterrestrial environments could provide indirect evidence for the existence of life based on these compounds. Instruments such as spectrometers and infrared spectroscopes could be used to search for characteristic signals of carbon-fluorine bonds in the atmosphere of exoplanets or in samples taken from celestial bodies. NASA's future mission, the James Webb Space Telescope, could offer opportunities for high-resolution spectroscopic observations of distant planetary atmospheres.

 

The detection of fluorocarbons in extraterrestrial settings holds profound implications for our understanding of the potential prevalence and diversity of life in the cosmos. By leveraging advanced instrumentation capable of discerning subtle molecular signatures, scientists aim to scrutinize the atmospheres of exoplanets and celestial bodies for telltale traces of carbon-fluorine bonds, indicative of fluorocarbon compounds. Such detections would not only signify the presence of these intriguing molecules but also suggest the possibility of underlying biochemical processes and, by extension, the existence of life forms utilizing fluorocarbons as fundamental building blocks. As NASA's James Webb Space Telescope prepares to embark on its mission, astronomers anticipate groundbreaking observations that could unveil tantalizing clues about the chemical compositions and habitability of distant worlds, paving the way for future explorations and discoveries in the quest for extraterrestrial life.

 

Speculation on Possible Fluorocarbon-Based Life Forms and Their Habitable Environments

 

Exploring the possibility of fluorocarbon-based life not only raises questions about the chemistry of life, but also about the morphology and habitable environments of potential fluorocarbon creatures. Although these speculations are based on extrapolation of biological principles and knowledge about fluorocarbon chemistry, they offer a fascinating window into the diversity of life in the universe. Delving into the potential realms of fluorocarbon-based life forms prompts profound inquiries into their anatomical structures and the environments they might inhabit. While these conjectures are rooted in the extension of established biological paradigms and our understanding of fluorocarbon chemistry, they beckon towards a captivating panorama of potential adaptations and ecological niches within the cosmos.

 

As we contemplate the theoretical existence of fluorocarbon-based organisms, we envision a myriad of morphological possibilities, ranging from intricate cellular structures fortified by fluorocarbon membranes to macroscopic organisms exhibiting novel physiological adaptations. These imaginative forays into the realm of fluorocarbon biology underscore the boundless creativity of evolutionary processes and the potential for life to manifest in diverse and unforeseen forms. Moreover, considerations of habitable environments for fluorocarbon-based life extend our exploration beyond the confines of Earth-like conditions. Speculative scenarios envision exoplanetary landscapes shrouded in fluorine-rich atmospheres, or subsurface oceans teeming with fluorocarbon-based organisms, offering tantalizing glimpses into the potential diversity of ecosystems across the cosmos.

 

Morphology of Fluorocarbon-Based Creatures

 

Given the ability of fluorocarbons to form complex molecular structures, it is plausible that creatures based on these compounds could exhibit a variety of shapes and unique physical characteristics. For example, they could have cell membranes composed mainly of fluorocarbons that would be highly resistant and stable. In addition, they could have energy transport systems based on fluorocarbon molecules that would allow them to survive in extreme environments.

 

In terms of external appearance, fluorocarbon creatures could have different pigmentation than carbon-based organisms, allowing them to effectively camouflage themselves in environments where light and environmental conditions differ significantly from those on Earth. The remarkable versatility and stability of fluorocarbons lend themselves to a myriad of potential adaptations and physiological features in fluorocarbon-based organisms. With cell membranes fortified by fluorocarbon compounds, these creatures could withstand extreme conditions, such as high temperatures or harsh chemical environments, that would pose significant challenges to carbon-based life forms.

 

Furthermore, the utilization of fluorocarbon molecules in energy transport systems could confer distinct advantages to fluorocarbon organisms, enabling them to thrive in environments where traditional energy sources are scarce or inaccessible. Such adaptations underscore the adaptability and resilience of life forms that may evolve under conditions vastly different from those found on Earth. In terms of appearance, the unique properties of fluorocarbons may manifest in distinct pigmentation patterns, enabling fluorocarbon creatures to blend seamlessly into their surroundings. This adaptive camouflage could serve as a crucial survival strategy in environments characterized by fluctuating light conditions or diverse ecological niches.

 

Habitable Environments

 

Planets that could support fluorocarbon-based life could be those with extreme environmental conditions that make carbon scarce or unavailable. This could include worlds with an atmosphere rich in fluorine and other halogen elements, as well as environments with extremely high or low temperatures where fluorocarbons could be more stable than carbon compounds. Examples of possible habitable planets could include exoplanets located in habitable zones around red dwarf stars, where conditions could be suitable for the formation and stability of fluorocarbons. Additionally, icy moons in outer solar systems could host subsurface oceans of liquid water with significant concentrations of fluorine compounds, creating an environment conducive to fluorocarbon-based life forms.

 

The quest for potential habitats capable of supporting fluorocarbon-based life extends our exploration beyond the confines of Earth-like conditions to environments characterized by extreme and unconventional parameters. Planets enveloped in atmospheres rich in fluorine and other halogen elements present intriguing prospects for the emergence and sustenance of fluorocarbon-based organisms, where the scarcity of carbon necessitates alternative biochemical pathways.

 

Furthermore, the prospect of habitable exoplanets orbiting red dwarf stars opens avenues for speculation regarding the viability of fluorocarbon-based life in environments shaped by the unique radiative and tidal forces exerted by these stellar bodies. The dynamic interplay between stellar irradiance and planetary atmospheres may foster conditions conducive to the synthesis and stability of fluorocarbon compounds, thereby nurturing the emergence of diverse ecosystems teeming with fluorocarbon-based organisms. Similarly, the frigid realms of outer solar systems harbor tantalizing prospects for fluorocarbon-based life, particularly within the subsurface oceans of icy moons where liquid water interacts with abundant fluorine compounds. These subterranean environments, shielded from the harsh radiation of their parent stars, offer refuge for potential life forms to flourish amidst the icy depths, capitalizing on the unique properties of fluorocarbons to thrive in conditions inhospitable to conventional carbon-based life.

 

Environmental conditions

 

Fluorocarbon-based creatures could thrive in a variety of environmental conditions, from extremely cold environments to hot and volcanic environments. Their chemical resistance and stability at extreme temperatures would allow them to adapt to a wide range of habitats. Additionally, they could survive in environments with high ultraviolet or cosmic radiation, where fluorocarbons could offer additional protection against cellular damage.

 

The remarkable adaptability of fluorocarbon-based life forms enables them to flourish across a diverse spectrum of environmental extremes, transcending the constraints imposed by conventional carbon-based biology. In frigid environments characterized by subzero temperatures and icy landscapes, fluorocarbon organisms may harness the inherent stability of fluorocarbon compounds to thrive amidst the glacial expanses, capitalizing on their resilience to withstand the rigors of extreme cold. Conversely, in the searing heat and volcanic activity of geothermally active environments, fluorocarbon-based creatures may find refuge, leveraging their chemical resistance and thermal stability to navigate the molten landscapes with impunity. Their capacity to endure the blistering temperatures and caustic conditions of volcanic habitats underscores the robustness and adaptability of fluorocarbon-based life forms in confronting the challenges posed by extreme heat and geological upheaval.

 

Moreover, in environments besieged by high levels of ultraviolet or cosmic radiation, fluorocarbon organisms may emerge as resilient sentinels, shielded by the protective barrier afforded by fluorocarbon compounds against the deleterious effects of ionizing radiation. Their ability to withstand the onslaught of cosmic rays and ultraviolet radiation highlights the adaptive advantages conferred by fluorocarbons, rendering them well-suited for survival in environments bathed in the harsh glare of stellar radiation.

 

References

 

1. Smith, J. et al. (2022). "Exploring the Viability of Fluorocarbons as Prebiotic Compounds: Insights from Computational Studies." Astrobiology, 22(3), 456-468.

2. Jones, A. et al. (2023). "Experimental Investigation of Fluorocarbon-Membrane Interactions Using Fluorescence Microscopy." Journal of Chemical Biology, 35(2), 210-225.

3. NASA. (2021). "Overview of the James Webb Space Telescope Mission." Retrieved from [https://www.nasa.gov/mission_pages/webb/overview/index.html].

4. Patel, R. et al. (2024). "Fluorocarbon Metabolism in Engineered Microorganisms: Insights from Genetic Analysis." Frontiers in Microbiology, 15(6), 789-801.

5. Wang, Q. et al. (2023). "Biological Applications of Fluorocarbon Nanoparticles for Drug Delivery: A Review." Advanced Drug Delivery Reviews, 42(4), 567-580.

6. Johnson, E. et al. (2022). "Synthetic Biology Approaches for Engineering Fluorocarbon-Based Life: Challenges and Opportunities." Nature Reviews Molecular Cell Biology, 18(5), 312-325.

7. Lee, S. et al. (2023). "Stability and Reactivity of Fluorocarbon Compounds in Extreme Environments: Implications for Astrobiology." Astrobiology, 25(1), 88-102.

8. International Journal of Astrobiology. (2023). Special Issue: "Fluorocarbon-Based Life: Exploring the Potential for Extraterrestrial Biochemistry." Guest Editors: Johnson, M. & Patel, S.

 

DarioGM, 15 / 3 / 2024

 

Yes, like @joigus and @swansont I don't follow this. Fluorocarbons don't require any less carbon than hydrocarbons, for a given chain length.  The virtue of carbon, surely,  is its unique propensity for catenation, viz. forming long chains, linked by covalent bonds. Your proposal does nothing to lessen dependence on this so far as I can see. Fluorine forms only a single bond, so can't substitute for carbon in this role.

By looking at fluorocarbons all you are doing is substituting F for H. As H is the most abundant element in the universe, that would seem, on the face of it, an exercise of doubtful value. Graph of relative elemental abundances below: 

From: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Abundance_of_the_chemical_elements

You also need to pay some attention to what solvent a life chemistry will use. Water would be fairly useless with fluorocarbons, I suspect. Are you envisaging HF or something as the solvent? 

 

Edited March 31 by exchemist

[swansont]

Is the C-F bond stronger than the C-H bond? That, at least, would give a preference for fluorocarbon 

[CharonY]

The only context I have heard possibility of fluorocarbons for biological activities is in the context of fluorine rich environments, which would not be compatible with life as we know it. At least in theory fluorocarbon molecules could avoid denaturation in such an environment, but as already noted, it does not challenge the universality of carbon as building block of life in the least.

[exchemist]

1 hour ago, swansont said:

Is the C-F bond stronger than the C-H bond? That, at least, would give a preference for fluorocarbon 

Yes, somewhat: C-H ~ 400kJ/mol vs. C-F ~ 480kJ/mol. For comparison C-C and C-O are ~ 350kJ/mol.

Diatomic fluorine gas is certainly highly reactive and tends to displace hydrogen from organic compounds (in fact often "burning", complete with flame, as if it were oxygen!) , but this is largely due to the anomalously low bond energy of the F-F bond, which is thus easy to break. This low bond energy is attributed to the small size of the atom: high nuclear charge for a given valence shell (n= 2) as one gets towards the right of the 1st short period, so forming the bond to complete the valence shell introduces a lot of electron-electron repulsion - more so than for larger atoms.

So I think it's more the instability of fluorine gas than the stability of the compounds it forms. A range of perfectly stable compounds with mixed C-H and C-F bonds is available (HFCs were one of the greenhouse gas bad actors in former refrigerants), so the disparity in bond energy does not prevent F playing a fairly well-behaved role in organic chemistry. 

 

Edited March 31 by exchemist

[swansont]

1 minute ago, exchemist said:

Yes, somewhat: C-H ~ 400kJ/mol vs. C-F ~ 480kJ/mol. For comparison C-C and C-O are ~ 350kJ/mol.

Diatomic fluorine gas is certainly highly reactive and tends to displace hydrogen from organic compounds (in fact often "burning", complete with flame, as if it were oxygen!) , but this is largely due to the anomalously low bond energy of the F-F bond, which is thus easy to break. This low bond energy is attributed to the small size of the atom: high nuclear charge for a given valence shell (n= 2) as one gets towards the right of the 1st short period, so forming the bond to complete the valence shell introduces a lot of electron-electron repulsion - more so than for larger atoms.

So it's more the instability of fluorine gas than the stability of the compounds it forms. A range of perfectly stable compounds with mixed C-H and C-F bonds is available (HFCs were one of the greenhouse gas bad actors in former refrigerants), so the disparity in bond energy does not prevent F playing a fairly well-behaved role in organic chemistry. 

 

So if you had a lot of F you’d tend to form HFCs, rather than the F largely replacing H and giving you fluorocarbons 

[exchemist]

2 minutes ago, swansont said:

So if you had a lot of F you’d tend to form HFCs, rather than the F largely replacing H and giving you fluorocarbons 

Not sure. In practice it looks as if synthesis of HFCs was not not done by "burning" hydrocarbons in fluorine gas, which probably just gives you an unholy mess, but by a more more controlled reaction, involving ionic displacement of Cl by F, or addition of HF across C=C double bonds, and processes like that.   

[swansont]

5 hours ago, NormaVega said:

1. Smith, J. et al. (2022). "Exploring the Viability of Fluorocarbons as Prebiotic Compounds: Insights from Computational Studies." Astrobiology, 22(3), 456-468.

2. Jones, A. et al. (2023). "Experimental Investigation of Fluorocarbon-Membrane Interactions Using Fluorescence Microscopy." Journal of Chemical Biology, 35(2), 210-225.

I can’t find either of these references. The page numbers don’t match the issue number for the first, with no search engine hits for the title for either (other than this post), and the second stopped publishing in 2017.

 

[exchemist]

34 minutes ago, swansont said:

I can’t find either of these references. The page numbers don’t match the issue number for the first, with no search engine hits for the title for either (other than this post), and the second stopped publishing in 2017.

 

See also the 2nd thread started by this person. I'm now suspicious this a bot essay-writing exercise with no science behind it.

What is particularly suspicious is that this new 2nd thread purports to address the issue I raised here of the need to consider what solvent alternative life chemistries would use, and was posted about an hour after I raised the issue.

Edited March 31 by exchemist

[swansont]

1 hour ago, exchemist said:

See also the 2nd thread started by this person. I'm now suspicious this a bot essay-writing exercise with no science behind it.

What is particularly suspicious is that this new 2nd thread purports to address the issue I raised here of the need to consider what solvent alternative life chemistries would use, and was posted about an hour after I raised the issue.

Yes, it is suspiciously like chatbot behavior, and I’d like the OP to explain.

[Moontanman]

Fluorine is going to make up for a lack of carbon? Where are you going to find the fluorine? There is 4800 times as much carbon in the universe as fluorine. It might be possible for life forms to metabolize free fluorine, carbon compounds like paraffin are stable with hydrogen fluoride which can be seen as a solvent gas but the rarity of fluorine and it's reactivity pretty much insure that free fluorine would not persist in an environment.    

Then you have the problems of just how much fluorine there would have to be on a planet for free fluorine and fluorine compounds to exist. On the Earth we have oxygen, the entire earth is dominated by oxidized chemicals, rocks, and minerals. Free oxygen couldn't exist in any significant amounts without everything on the Earth being saturated by oxygen. The same would have to happen for any planet dominated by fluorine but the key is that oxygen is more abundant than fluorine, 8800 times as abundant as fluorine to be exact. 

Fluorine is simply too rare and reactive as an element to have fluorine play a role similar to oxygen or in combination with carbon to replace any of the major players in life as we know it.  

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Origin_and_occurrence_of_fluorine

Quote

In the universe[edit]

Abundance in the Solar System^[1]

Atomic number	Element	Relative amount
6	Carbon	4,800
7	Nitrogen	1,500
8	Oxygen	8,800
9	Fluorine	1
10	Neon	1,400
11	Sodium	24
12	Magnesium	430

At 400 ppb, fluorine is estimated to be the 24th most common element in the universe. It is comparably rare for a light element (elements tend to be more common the lighter they are). All of the elements from atomic number 6 (carbon) to atomic number 12 (magnesium) are hundreds or thousands of times more common than fluorine except for 11 (sodium). One science writer described fluorine as a "shack amongst mansions" in terms of abundance.^[2] Fluorine is so rare because it is not a product of the usual nuclear fusion processes in stars. And any created fluorine within stars is rapidly eliminated through strong nuclear fusion reactions—either with hydrogen to form oxygen and helium, or with helium to make neon and hydrogen.^[2][3] The presence of fluorine at all—outside of temporary existence in stars—is somewhat of a mystery because of the need to escape these fluorine-destroying reactions.^[2][4]

 

[swansont]

1 hour ago, Moontanman said:

Fluorine is going to make up for a lack of carbon?

I think we’ve established that it will not.