TED Climate This ancient rock is changing our theory on the origin of life | Tara Djokic
May 22, 2024
Astrobiologist Tara Djokic and her team discovered an ancient rock in the Australian desert that challenges the theory of life's origin in the ocean. They discuss how this finding near a hot volcanic pool shifts our understanding of early life on Earth, suggesting hot spring pools played a key role. The podcast explores the evolution of life on Earth and the impact of human actions.
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Earth's Uniqueness
- Earth is unique for having plate tectonics, liquid water, and an oxygen-rich atmosphere.
- Ancient rocks, like those in Western Australia, record pivotal moments in Earth's planetary evolution, including the earliest evidence of life.
The Geyserite Discovery
- Tara Djokic discovered a unique rock resembling geyserite in the Pilbara region.
- This discovery suggests that hot springs, potential cradles of life, existed much earlier than previously thought, supporting Darwin's "warm little pond" theory.
Life's Evolution and the Great Oxidation Event
- Life on Earth flourished, diversified, and complexified over billions of years, leading to the evolution of humans.
- The Great Oxidation Event, marked by bacteria producing oxygen, enabled complex life and the ozone layer.