Description
“The Vital Question: Energy, Evolution, and the Origins of Complex Life” is a book by Nick Lane, published in 2015. In this groundbreaking work, Lane explores one of the most fundamental questions in biology: how did life on Earth evolve from simple, single-celled organisms to complex, multicellular organisms like plants, animals, and humans?
At the heart of Lane’s inquiry is the role of energy in the process of evolution. He argues that the key to understanding the origins of complex life lies in understanding how cells harness and utilize energy. Lane proposes that the evolution of complex life was driven by the emergence of complex cellular structures known as mitochondria, which produce energy through a process called oxidative phosphorylation.
Through a detailed examination of biochemistry, genetics, and evolutionary biology, Lane traces the origins of mitochondria and explores their pivotal role in the development of complex life forms. He also discusses the implications of his findings for our understanding of the origins of life on Earth and the potential for life elsewhere in the universe.
“The Vital Question” challenges readers to rethink conventional ideas about evolution and the nature of life itself. Lane’s interdisciplinary approach, engaging writing style, and provocative insights make this book a must-read for anyone interested in the origins and evolution of life on Earth.
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