Is life on other planets possible? Apparently, a type of liquid completely different from water could be the key to harboring life in worlds where water barely exists, according to an article published in the specialized journal PNAS.
For decades, the habitability of other planets was a topic of scientific debate, as until recently it was believed that water was one of the requirements for life on other worlds. However, this discovery could change things.
Through different laboratory experiments, researchers discovered that a type of fluid, known as ionic liquid, could be the key to other planets, as it can easily be formed from chemical ingredients found on the surface of some rocky planets and moons.
This liquid, composed of salts that only exist in liquid form below 100 degrees Celsius, can also be produced on earth. How? By mixing sulfuric acid and certain organic compounds containing nitrogen.
Ionic liquid would offer the possibility of habitable planets
A liquid that, unlike water, does not evaporate
According to experts, these ionic liquids have an extremely low vapor pressure and do not evaporate. Additionally, they can form and be maintained at higher temperatures and pressures than water can tolerate.
At the same time, this liquid can become a conducive environment for biomolecules, such as certain proteins, which can remain stable in the fluid. For this reason, experts suggest that it could be found even on planets that are too hot or have atmospheres with too low pressure.
It is also explained that it would have the potential for life, although it is likely to have no resemblance to Earth’s aquatic beings.
Ionic liquid would be the key to life on another planet.
The key to life on other planets
Ionic liquids are salts that remain in liquid state at relatively low temperatures, even below 100 °C. They are composed of organic and inorganic ions and are characterized by their low volatility and high thermal stability. These properties make them attractive for industrial and scientific applications, as they reduce emissions of volatile organic compounds.
In green chemistry, ionic liquids are used as alternative solvents to conventional ones, as they can be reused and minimize environmental impact. They are also used in organic synthesis processes, compound separation, and energy storage, thanks to their ability to dissolve a wide variety of substances.
Furthermore, their chemical structure can be modified to suit specific needs, giving them great versatility. This characteristic allows the development of ionic liquids designed to capture carbon dioxide, improve battery efficiency, or act as catalysts in sustainable reactions, opening a broad field of technological innovation.
