Alternative biochemistry is a speculative field of biochemistry that deals with life forms distinctly and radically different from the life forms on Earth. Alternative biochemistry involves the use of elements and solvents other than carbon and water for the making of basic cell structures. Alternative Biochemistry is the center point of many theories pertaining to extraterrestrial life forms commonly used in science fiction. Alternative Biochemistry term and research papers are mostly written in CSE/CBE Style and ACS writing styles but are also at times written in Vancouver style depending on the word limit.

In alternative biochemistry silicon atom is the most frequently proposed basis as silicon atoms have most chemical properties similar to that of carbon atoms. Silicon also belongs to the carbon group that is in the fourth group of the periodic table. However, silicon atoms have a larger atomic mass as well as a larger atomic radius in comparison to carbon atoms and therefore, silicon atoms can not easily form double and triple covalent bonds. The formation of double and triple bonds is the core center of biochemical system.

There has been thorough research upon the pros and cons if alternative biochemistry and its quest of utilizing element other than carbon in the process of making molecular structures required for life. As human beings are basically carbon-based and have also never come across life forms originating from outside the earth’s environment excludes the possibility of use of elements other than carbon to be considered.