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Question #46425
The Question
Given below are two statements regarding the Oparin-Haldane hypothesis and the thermodynamic constraints of chemical evolution:
Statement I: In the context of chemical evolution, the primitive Earth's oceans acted as a static sink where the continuous, irreversible accumulation of organic molecules directly yielded the first self-replicating protobionts. Statement II: If early organic monomers were irreversibly locked into highly stable, non-recyclable inert polymers (a state of prebiotic nutrient immobility), the lack of precursor turnover would have prevented the emergence of life.
Choose the correct answer from the options given below:
Options
- A.
Both Statement I and Statement II are correct.
- B.
Both Statement I and Statement II are incorrect.
- C.
Statement I is correct but Statement II is incorrect.
- D.
Statement I is incorrect but Statement II is correct.
Check Your Answer
Correct Answer
Step-by-Step Solution
Explanation
How the Examiner Thinks
Evolutionary_Exception
Tackle problems where standard rules evolve or change based on specific environmental constraints.
Concepts Behind This Question
Reducing_Atmosphere|CH4_NH3_H2|Nutrient_Immobility
Why This Question Is Tricky
Common Mistakes
Conceptual Pivot: Students often memorize that the mere 'accumulation of organic molecules' in the primitive ocean was the trigger for life.
This question introduces the thermodynamic constraint that irreversible accumulation (forming a static sink) would actually halt chemical evolution.
It tests the understanding that life requires a dynamic flux and precursor turnover, bridging abiotic synthesis with the ecological concept of nutrient mobility.
Quick Facts About This Question
Question Information
| Subject | Biology |
| Chapter | Evolution - Class 12 |
| Concept | Miller-Urey Conditions |
| Difficulty | 8 |
| Cognitive Load | 5 |
| Target Solve Time | 120 sec |
| Access | Free |