What would happen if we were silicon-based life forms?

Due to the weak nature of silicon bonds, silicon-based life would be primitive and simple. The complex structures of the organic forms we see on earth would be lacking — instead we would see a blob or a clump of silicon compounds.

Why is silicon-based life not likely on earth?

Silicon can grow into a number of lifelike structures, but its chemistry makes it unlikely that it could be the basis for alien life-forms. The fact that silicon oxidizes to a solid is one basic reason as to why it cannot support life.

Can silicon-based life exist Quora?

Silicon is far more abundant on the Earth than carbon, but life here uses carbon, not silicon. Actually finding any life there, if it exists, will be extremely difficult for obvious reasons.

Is Silicon essential for life?

Silicon is also essential for plant and vegetable life. Phytolites are small silica particles that are produced within some plants. These particles also have the ability to be kept in fossils, providing evolutionary evidence.

What would happen if silicon did not exist?

Silicon is the second most abundant element in Earth’s crust (after oxygen) at 27\%. The continents consist mostly of granite and other light silicates. Structural damage will not be fixed when silicon reappears. Without computer chips, there will be no electronic communications, no radio or TV.

Is life on Earth carbon-based?

Life on Earth is based on carbon, likely because each carbon atom can form bonds with up to four other atoms simultaneously. This quality makes carbon well-suited to form the long chains of molecules that serve as the basis for life as we know it, such as proteins and DNA.

How is silicon used in real life?

Silicon is one of man’s most useful elements. In the form of sand and clay it is used to make concrete and brick; it is a useful refractory material for high-temperature work, and in the form of silicates it is used in making enamels, pottery, etc. Silicon tetrachloride can be used as iridize glass.