Science at Interfaces, from Biochemistry to Cosmochemistry

This book emphasizes the interfaces between the seemingly diverse fields of biochemistry and cosmochemistry. This link provides the basis for understanding of how life began on Earth and whether this process is universal. This area of study helps us to understand the long-asked questions of whether there is life beyond Earth, and whether our planet is one example of how life could originate and evolve on other worlds. Biochemistry demonstrates how life has originated and evolved into complex life forms ranging from small microbial forms such as bacteria to the upright walking creatures we call humans. Cosmochemistry explores whether the origin of life, and its evolution into complex life forms, is possible in other worlds. The focus is on amino acids which play an essential role in biochemistry on Earth and also are present elsewhere in our solar system. The book explores these issues through personal anecdotes from the author's long and varied scientific career.