A new measure of planetary chaos may be essential in the search for extraterrestrial life, study suggests

Efforts to discover extraterrestrial life require a paradigm shift, with a study advocating for the inclusion of a crucial factor — planetary entropy production (PEP) — in their calculations, according to a recent study.

While the quest for life beyond Earth traditionally focuses on the presence of water, warmth, and suitable conditions, this study introduces entropy, a measure of disorder or randomness in a system. The research proposes that a planet's "planetary entropy production" serves as a powerful indicator of habitability. Essentially, the higher a planet's ability to generate and dissipate energy, the greater its potential for supporting complex life.

Unlike conventional approaches, which emphasise the circumstellar habitable zone (CHZ) based on liquid water, PEP prioritises planets within the CHZ with the greatest potential for sustaining complex life. This method adapts to the characteristics of different stars, revealing that planets orbiting hotter and larger stars have a broader habitable range compared to those around cooler and smaller stars.

One notable aspect of the PEP concept is its inclusivity, irrespective of the chemistry underlying life forms. Whether life is carbon-based, similar to Earth, or composed of silicon or other exotic elements, the key lies in the dynamic processes driving life's growth and complexity.

While PEP adds a valuable dimension to the quest for extraterrestrial life, the study acknowledges the need for further research to comprehend its interaction with other factors influencing habitability, such as planetary size and radiation resistance. The incorporation of entropy into these considerations aims to enhance our understanding of planetary habitability, offering a more nuanced approach in the ongoing exploration for life beyond our home planet.

The study detailing these findings has been published in the Monthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society.