1.10.6 The Origin of Life: The Rest of the Story

Question 1

RNA

Answer 1

• capable of polymerizing, self-replicating, and acting as a catalyst.
• possible that RNA could have given rise to DNA, our current genetic material.
• The first life forms could have produced CO2 from the breakdown of organic molecules.
• Photosynthetic organisms could have consumed CO2 and released oxygen into the atmosphere.

Question 2

Which of the following statements about RNA is incorrect?

Answer 2

• RNA can’t act as a catalyst for protein synthesis.

Question 3

In a step towards more complicated lifeforms, heterotrophic bacteria took in materials and were able to break their ______ and release _____________, which was then able to catalyze other processes.

Answer 3

• molecular bonds; energy

Question 4

True or false?

Nucleic acids such as DNA and RNA are capable of polymerizing replication reactions.

Answer 4

• false

Question 5

Oxygen in the atmosphere most likely came from

Answer 5

• the use of carbon dioxide as a carbon source

Question 6

Over two billion years ago, ____________ bacteria were able to take in carbon dioxide and produce oxygen gas as a waste product.

Answer 6

• anaerobic photosynthetic