Which of the following was an important source of prebiotic molecules (e.g., amino acids) on the early Earth?
A) molecules produced on the surface by impacts
B) molecules produced by chemical reactions near deep-sea ocean vents
C) molecules transported to the surface by impacts
D) all of these

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

All of these options have been proposed as potential sources of prebiotic molecules on the early Earth. Molecules produced on the surface by impacts, such as the famous Miller-Urey experiment, could have provided the building blocks for life. Chemical reactions near deep-sea ocean vents could offer a more stable environment for prebiotic chemistry to occur. Finally, molecules transported to the surface by impacts from comets or asteroids may have introduced a variety of organic compounds to the Earth.

Which of the Following Was an Important Source of Prebiotic