Multiple Choice
Which of the following best describes the primary focus of Jared Diamond's research as it relates to evolution and natural selection?
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21. Evolution
Introduction to Evolution and Natural Selection
Multiple Choice
Which of the following statements supports the hypothesis of an 'RNA world' on early Earth?
A
Lipids alone are capable of self-replication and information storage.
B
RNA molecules can both store genetic information and catalyze chemical reactions.
C
DNA is more stable than RNA and therefore must have come first.
D
Proteins were the first biological molecules to replicate themselves.
Verified step by step guidance1
Understand the concept of the 'RNA world' hypothesis: This hypothesis suggests that RNA was the first molecule to play a central role in early life on Earth, as it can both store genetic information and catalyze chemical reactions, unlike DNA or proteins which specialize in one function.
Evaluate the statement 'Lipids alone are capable of self-replication and information storage': Lipids are important for forming cell membranes but are not capable of storing genetic information or catalyzing reactions, so this does not support the RNA world hypothesis.
Analyze the statement 'RNA molecules can both store genetic information and catalyze chemical reactions': This is a key feature of RNA and directly supports the RNA world hypothesis, as it explains how RNA could have been the precursor to more complex biological molecules.
Examine the statement 'DNA is more stable than RNA and therefore must have come first': While DNA is more stable, it requires proteins for replication and does not catalyze reactions, making it unlikely to have been the first molecule in early life. This does not support the RNA world hypothesis.
Consider the statement 'Proteins were the first biological molecules to replicate themselves': Proteins are excellent catalysts but cannot store genetic information, so they are unlikely to have been the first replicating molecules. This does not support the RNA world hypothesis.
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