What advantages and disadvantages can you imagine silicon-based molecules might have over carbon-based molecules in a very different otherworldly environment?

Answer 1

Silicon-based molecules could potentially offer advantages in environments with extreme temperatures or pressures, as silicon's chemical bonds might provide greater stability under such conditions compared to carbon. Additionally, silicon can form a wider variety of complex structures due to its ability to bond with multiple elements, potentially leading to diverse biochemical pathways. However, disadvantages include silicon's generally lower versatility in forming stable compounds and the fact that its compounds (like silicates) are often less reactive than carbon-based ones, which could limit the complexity of metabolic processes. Furthermore, silicon's larger atomic size may hinder the formation of intricate molecular structures essential for life as we know it.