Has any non-living system been found in nature that can replicate itself?

Question

For biological evolution to have begun, there had to be some system of molecules that could replicate itself. Has a non-living system of this kind ever been observed in nature? Have we been able to build one ourselves? I know there is a lot of work going on in molecular engineering.

Answer 1

viruses aren't living according to my biology teacher because they cant live by themselves. they need a host like humans or something living to reproduce.

Answer 2

I'm not sure about viruses. They seem to be complex molecules that reproduce.  However, if life is defined , in part, by the ability to reproduce, then ...

Answer 3

TMY is right!

But the thing is is that DNA itself isn't "living" it replicates as well as RNA and mRNA. and you question is phrased a little awkwardly because you have non-living system and nature in the same phrase

Answer 4

Viruses.  Virii.  Whatever.  Of course, there's some argument whether a virus is a living thing or not, and I've heard of other things but I don't remember what they are, so viruses is the closest answer I have at the moment.

Answer 5

The crystalline structures of any crystal are non-living and they replicate very well.

Answer 6

Fire.

Sulfuric acid catalyzes the formation of sulfuric acid.

Answer 7

Weather fits your "system" categorization at least, and it certainly seems to feed and expand and "replicate," as it were.

Answer 8

Crystals grow and will 'seed'.

Answer 9

Well im not too sure about Non-living but we are starting the idea of personal replicators though they are still just in theory. Carbon Nanotubes grow on their own so im not sure if u consider them replicating. The latter being a reality is actually pretty amazing though nano technology or the idea of replicators have been part of human imagination so far, but who knows our technology grows at leaps and bounds!