Radiolytic Synthesis of Cyanogen Chloride, Cyanamide and Simple Sugar Precursors

• DOI: 10.1002/slct.201802242
• Publication Date: 2018-09-26T06:50:56Z
• Authors: Ruiqin Yi; Yayoi Hongo; Isao Yoda; Zachary R. Adam; Albert C. Fahrenbach
• Keywords: Cyanamide; Cyanogen; Hydrogen chloride; Hydrogen cyanide

Abstract Chemical evolution, from simple molecules to complex systems, is fundamental modern origins of life research, and reaction networks are often supposed have operated on the early Earth. Herein, a variety compounds useful particularly for RNA synthesis − namely, cyanogen chloride, cyanamide, nitrile precursors sugars produced in short order by chemical network starting hydrogen cyanide driven gamma radiolysis. The radiolytic yield cyanamide was found be proportional concentration an overlooked spectator anion. Aqueous irradiation presence sodium chloride also affords possible intermediate cyanamide. Meanwhile, sugar proposed proceed through Kiliani‐Fischer homologation mechanism made reducing power solvated electron atom. Such has potential serve as model better understanding engineering evolution mixtures laboratory that could happened