Mineral membrane of Earth (IMAGE) Cactus Communications Caption The mineral membrane of Earth contains minerals that are structurally similar to those essential in biological photosynthesis. These compounds absorb solar photons to energize electrons, who jump to higher energy states and then partake in various chemical reactions. Credit Earth Science Frontiers Usage Restrictions None License Licensed content Disclaimer: AAAS and EurekAlert! are not responsible for the accuracy of news releases posted to EurekAlert! by contributing institutions or for the use of any information through the EurekAlert system.