biotason

Biotason is a hypothetical, naturally occurring chemical compound that has been proposed as a potential biosignature. Its existence has not been definitively confirmed, and it remains a subject of scientific inquiry and speculation. The concept of biotason emerged from theoretical models exploring the potential chemical diversity of life beyond Earth.

The proposed characteristics of biotason are that it would be produced by biological processes unique to certain extraterrestrial organisms. Its detection in planetary atmospheres or on planetary surfaces could, therefore, serve as an indicator of life. Scientists are investigating potential biosignatures that could be uniquely biological in origin, meaning they are unlikely to be produced by abiotic (non-biological) geological or chemical processes.

Research into biotason involves studying the complex metabolic pathways that might generate such a molecule. This includes considering the elemental composition, molecular structure, and stability of the compound under various extraterrestrial environmental conditions. If biotason were to be detected, further analysis would be required to rule out non-biological explanations for its presence. The search for biotason and other potential biosignatures is a key aspect of astrobiology and the search for extraterrestrial life.