"Self-replicating molecular assemblage" is a classic definition of life.However,clay particles in clay soil contain aluminum and iron compounds that determine the pattern of particles in adjacent layers over time and,therefore,represent a self-replicating molecular assemblage.What can we conclude?
A)Clay soil is living
B)Clay soil is not living because there was no molecular change involved
C)Clay soil is not living because no carbon is involved;otherwise,such replication would be living
D)Clay soil is not living because what is described is a simple repetitive process without the ability to evolve or respond to the environment

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

While clay particles may exhibit self-replicating molecular assemblage, this does not meet the criteria for life as it does not involve carbon-based molecular changes nor the ability to evolve or respond to the environment. Therefore, the best choice is D.

"Self-Replicating Molecular Assemblage" Is a Classic Definition of Life