Is water always necessary for life?
Water, water, everywhere…. what happens when you don’t stay hydrated?
Asked by: Sarah Hollis, Manchester
All known life needs liquid water to function properly. It’s essential in part because water is such a good solvent, readily dissolving and transporting nutrients across a wide range of temperatures. Its molecules also play a key role in ensuring proteins behave properly.
But some scientists suspect alien life may have evolved to exploit alternative chemicals like hydrocarbons capable of performing the same roles.
Read more:
Subscribe to BBC Focus magazine for fascinating new Q&As every month and follow @sciencefocusQA on Twitter for your daily dose of fun science facts.
Authors
Robert is a science writer and visiting professor of science at Aston University. He likes maths, West End musicals and hamsters.
