[Lev]

Hey, this is a math thread. If you don't like the numbers in the article, then feel free to post your own calculations for the self-formation of the first DNA.

The math looks correct for the million monkeys problem. But, DNA self-formation is a very different problem. A more similar problem would look like this:
1. prepare the input components
2. run a 'round' of reactions
3. REMOVE all results of 'failed' attempts
4. goto 2.

See the difference? Feedback rings a bell maybe?

[Southack]

"See the difference? Feedback rings a bell maybe?"

"Feedback" implies intelligent intervention into the process. Is that how you want to say that the first DNA can into being?

[Southack]

"See the difference? Feedback rings a bell maybe?"

"Feedback" implies intelligent intervention into the process. Is that how you want to say that the first DNA came into being?

[Texas_Jarhead]

If you don't have a clue as to what the outcome should be then how do you know which attempts actually failed?

[RC30]

DNA self-formation is a very different problem. A more similar problem would look like this: 1. prepare the input components 2. run a 'round' of reactions 3. REMOVE all results of 'failed' attempts 4. goto 2. See the difference? Feedback rings a bell maybe?

Who or what provides feedback? and why?