Basic Terms related to Origin of Life

The origin of life from non-living organic matter without the intervention of pre-existing living organisms.

The biological phase of evolution where primitive living systems (protobionts) developed from complex organic structures like coacervates, eventually forming the first cellular life.

The gradual synthesis of complex organic macromolecules (such as proteins and nucleotides) from simple inorganic and organic molecules under the conditions of the primitive Earth.

Colloidal aggregates of complex organic macromolecules capable of growth and replication are considered as early precursors to cell-like structures.

The evolutionary phase involving the diversification of primitive cells into varied nutritional types (like chemoheterotrophs and photoautotrophs) and the subsequent development of multicellular organisms.

Spherical vesicles formed by a lipid bilayer enclosing an aqueous compartment, serving as models for early primitive cell membranes.

Abiotically produced aggregates of organic molecules surrounded by a membrane-like structure, serving as direct precursors to the first living cells and exhibiting basic life properties such as metabolism and replication.