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Transformer
- The Deep Chemistry of Life and Death
- Narrated by: Richard Trinder
- Length: 10 hrs and 55 mins
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Publisher's Summary
For decades, biology has been dominated by information—the power of genes. Yet in terms of information there is no difference between a living cell and one that died a moment ago. What really animates cells and sets them apart from non-living matter? This question goes back to the flawed geniuses and heroic origins of modern biology. The answer could turn our picture of life on Earth upside down.
In Transformer, Nick Lane captures a scientific renaissance that is hiding in plain sight. At its core is a cycle of reactions that transforms inorganic molecules into the building blocks of life, and the reverse—the iconic Krebs cycle that sits at the heart of metabolism. This conflicted merry-go-round of energy and matter has long taunted true understanding. Nick Lane is in the vanguard of scientists now tracing its ramifications across the tree of life.
To grasp the Krebs cycle is to fathom the deep coherence of biology. It connects the first photosynthetic bacteria with our own peculiar cells. It links the emergence of consciousness with the inevitability of death. And it puts the subtle differences between individuals in the same grand story as the rise of the living world itself.
Life is at root a chemical phenomenon: this is its deep logic.
PLEASE NOTE: When you purchase this title, the accompanying PDF will be available in your Audible Library along with the audio.
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What listeners say about Transformer
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- hal pearse
- 25-11-2022
Excellent tour de force
Easy access to understanding complex cutting edge science without having to complete a degree or commit too much time to the subject
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- StuartR
- 20-11-2022
Organic chemistry made easy
If only my lecturers at university were able to explain the Krebs cycle this well. Outlines a dazzlingly complex system of electrochemical interactions in an entertaining and easy to follow manner. A great science educator.
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- carriann wilcock
- 15-01-2023
Engrossing
I found myself entirely engrossed, although it will be a book that requires more than one listen due to the complexity of the subject matter. I imagine reading, rather than listening would have aided understanding of the more complex chemistry covered. However, the pace and cadence of the narration is helpful, as are the analogies and stories which consolidate the points made.
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