Abstract Radical chemistry is tightly interwoven in proposed prebiotic synthetic pathways, reaction networks and geochemical scenarios that have helped shape our understanding of how life could have originated. Gas-phase prebiotic reactions involving electric discharge, vapour ablation by asteroidal and cometary impacts as well as ionising radiation all produce radicals that facilitate complex molecular synthesis. Reactions in the solid phase which are responsible for astrochemical syntheses can also take place through radicals produced via irradiation of protoplanetary/interstellar ice grains and dust particles. Aqueous-phase radical chemistry affords further molecular complexity promoting the production of precursors for the synthesis of biopolymers thought important for the emergence of life. Radical chemistry appears to be a common thread amongst all kinds of prebiotic investigations, and this Review aims to bring attention to a few selected examples. Some important historical studies and modern developments with respect to prebiotic chemistry are summarised through the lens of radical chemistry.

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益生元化学中的自由基

摘要 自由基化学与提议的生命前合成途径、反应网络和地球化学情景紧密交织，这些都有助于塑造我们对生命起源的理解。气相益生元反应涉及放电、小行星和彗星撞击引起的蒸汽消融以及电离辐射，都会产生促进复杂分子合成的自由基。负责天体化学合成的固相反应也可以通过原行星/星际冰粒和尘埃粒子辐射产生的自由基发生。水相自由基化学提供了进一步的分子复杂性，促进了合成生物聚合物的前体的生产，这些生物聚合物被认为对生命的出现很重要。自由基化学似乎是各种益生元研究的共同点，本评论旨在引起对一些选定示例的关注。通过自由基化学的视角总结了一些关于益生元化学的重要历史研究和现代发展。