Life as a Dynamic Fourth State of Matter
Addy Pross argues that life is a distinct, dynamic state of matter, not just a collection of chemical compounds. He contends that the inability of physics to explain biological self-assembly stems from a failure to recognize life as a kinetic state where molecular components are constantly replaced, unlike static thermodynamic states like solids or liquids.
Key points
- Pross highlights a conceptual gap between physics and biology, noting that while both agree life is made of physical matter, they disagree on how that matter behaves.
- He contrasts non-living self-assembly, such as crystal formation, with biological ontogeny, where a single cell develops into a complex organism with specific purposeful traits.
- Pross asserts that current scientific models cannot replicate biological self-assembly from dead biomolecules, only producing inhomogeneous dead clumps.
- He proposes that life is a 'fourth state of matter' characterized by dynamic turnover, where molecular parts are continually replaced, unlike static thermodynamic states.
- This dynamic view aims to bridge the divide between physics and biology by explaining life's unique properties through kinetic theory rather than static equilibrium.
Background
This discussion aligns with broader scientific inquiries into the origins and nature of life, which remain among the foundational mysteries in science. Previous coverage has highlighted how questions about life's emergence and commonality persist alongside other unresolved issues in physics and cosmology.
Why it matters
Understanding life as a distinct state of matter could resolve a long-standing disconnect between physical and biological sciences, potentially leading to new theories on the origin of life and the fundamental nature of biological organization.
What to watch
Pross suggests that recent advances in chemical theory may provide the missing link to explain life's dynamic nature, potentially allowing for a unified physical theory of life.
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