I was reading The Selfish Gene. In the 2nd chapter - "Replicators" I read:
Think of the replicator as a mold or template. Imagine it as a large molecule consisting of a complex chain of various sorts of building block molecules.
The small building blocks were abundantly available in the soup surrounding the replicator. Now suppose that each building block has an affinity for its own kind. Then whenever a building block from out in the soup lands up next to a part of the replicator for which it has an affinity, it will tend to stick there. The building blocks that attach themselves in this way will be automatically arranged in a sequence that mimics that of the replicator itself. It is easy then to think of them joining up to stable chain just as in the formation of the original replicator. This process could continue as a progressive stacking up, layer upon layer.
This is how crystals are formed. On the other hand, the two chains might split apart, in which case we have two replicators, each of which can go on to make further copies.
I don't get the part in bold.
If these molecules joins the replicator then the replicator wouldn't change?
To what refers with "The building blocks that attach themselves in this way will be automatically arranged in a sequence mimics that of the replicator itself"? A new sequence? The same sequence?
In the part "It is easy then to think of them joining up to stable chain just as in the formation of the original replicator", what is it joined? replicator with this building block? these building blocks with other building blocks in the soup to form a copy of replicator?
- Why you can infer that is how the crystals are formed?
Take into account that I don't have a solid biology background, so it would be great if you can answer it in detail. I really appreciate your help!.