Multiple Choice
Why were only anaerobic organisms able to live during the first 2 billion years on Earth?
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24. History of Life on Earth
Origin of Life
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Which hypothesis proposes that RNA could have been the first self-replicating precursor to life on Earth?
A
Panspermia hypothesis
B
Endosymbiotic theory
C
Iron-sulfur world hypothesis
D
RNA world hypothesis
Verified step by step guidance1
Understand the context of the question: The problem is asking about a hypothesis that explains the origin of life on Earth, specifically focusing on the role of RNA as a self-replicating molecule.
Review the RNA world hypothesis: This hypothesis suggests that RNA was the first self-replicating molecule capable of storing genetic information and catalyzing chemical reactions, making it a precursor to life.
Compare the RNA world hypothesis to other options: The Panspermia hypothesis suggests life originated elsewhere in the universe and was transported to Earth, the Endosymbiotic theory explains the origin of eukaryotic cells, and the Iron-sulfur world hypothesis proposes life began in hydrothermal vents with chemical reactions involving iron and sulfur.
Identify why the RNA world hypothesis is correct: RNA has the unique ability to act as both a genetic material and a catalyst (ribozymes), which supports the idea that it could have been the first self-replicating molecule.
Conclude that the RNA world hypothesis is the most plausible answer based on its explanation of RNA's dual role in early life processes.
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