Chapter 14.2, Problem 8MI

Summary Introduction

To model:

Oparin’s primordial soup hypothesis by filling in the given graphic organizer.

Introduction:

Most scientists believe that life originated through a series of chemical events early in Earth’s history. During these events complex organic molecules were produced from simple molecules. Eventually simple metabolic pathways developed. Such pathways allowed molecules to be synthesized or broken down efficiently. These might have led to the emergence of life.

Answer to Problem 8MI

Explanation of Solution

The primordial soup hypothesis was an early hypothesis about origin of life. Oparin and Haldane gave this hypothesis according to which if Earth’s early atmosphere had a mix of certain gases; organic molecules could have been synthesized from simple reactions involving those gases in the early oceans. UV light from Sun and electric discharge in lightning might serve as energy sources. These organic molecules could be the precursors to life.