On Selection Mechanisms during Initial Evolution and on the Possible Role of Ionic Balance

Initial evolution at the molecular level can proceed through mechanisms that enhance either the generation or the survival of certain molecules. Phenomena related to ionic balance can be the basis for both generative and survival selection mechanisms that may have driven the initial evolution of macromolecules. An important advantage of mechanisms based on ionic balance phenomena is that they can conceivably generate spatial and temporal inhomogeneities in semi-enclosed spaces within cavities of porous materials and/or membranes. Under certain circumstances, such inhomogeneities are required for initial evolution to proceed.