For a silicon-based biochemistry, SiO₂ would presumably take the place of CO₂. CO₂ is easily transported through the environment on Earth because it is a gas at temperatures where water is liquid. Since SiO₂ is a solid at these temperatures (its melting point is about 1920 K = 1647 C; it boils at 3223 K = 2950 C), silicon based life would probably need to use a different solvent. Would any of the other solvents considered in class (ammonia, methane, or ethane) work? If not, why not?

a. Ammonia, methane and ethane could all work for SiO₂

b.

Ammonia could work because it is liquid at higher temperatures than methane and ethane.

c.

Methane could work because it is liquid over a narrower temperture range than ammonia or methane.

d.

Ethane could work because it is liquid over a wider temperature range than ammonia or methane.

E

None could work because they aren't liquid at the temperatures at which SiO₂ is a gas.