We present here a combined experimental and computational analysis of the FR that helps explain its course and the diverse products detected. The perception that the reaction is "prebiotic," implying it produces contemporary biological compounds rather than biological-like processes, has led many researchers to focus on its ability to produce biological sugars, especially ribose, while ignoring the diversity of other products the FR produces . This perception has led research teams to explore ways to make ribose preferentially over other products , and sometimes to refer to all "undesired" products of the reaction as "tar" , and seek ways to avoid those outcomes .