Life was long thought to obey its own set of rules. But as simple systems show signs of lifelike behavior, scientists are arguing about whether this apparent complexity is all a consequence of thermodynamics.
Quanta Magazine is committed to accurate, impartial math and basic science journalism that serves the public interest. We are an editorially independent publication with no involvement in any of the Simons Foundation’s grant-giving or research efforts. Foundation-funded researchers do not receive preferential treatment and Quanta articles do not necessarily represent the views of the foundation.
By Philip Ball
What’s the difference between physics and biology? Take a golf ball and a cannonball and drop them off the Tower of Pisa. The laws of physics allow you to predict their trajectories pretty much as accurately as you could wish for.
Now do the same experiment again, but replace the cannonball with a pigeon.
continues…
Comments