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Difficulty: EasyIdentifying Points of Disagreement

Two scientists discuss the primary source of organic molecules on early Earth.

Scientist 1
Organic molecules were synthesized in Earth's early atmosphere. High-energy lightning sparks provided the energy to convert atmospheric gases, such as methane (CH4CH_4) and ammonia (NH3NH_3), into amino acids. These amino acids then fell into the oceans via rain.

Scientist 2
Organic molecules were synthesized at deep-sea hydrothermal vents. The extreme heat and mineral-rich water at these vents catalyzed the formation of complex carbon compounds from dissolved carbon dioxide (CO2CO_2) and hydrogen (H2H_2). Atmospheric reactions could not produce stable organic molecules because UV radiation from the Sun would destroy them immediately.

Scientist 1 and Scientist 2 differ in their views regarding which of the following?

  1. A
    Whether amino acids contain carbon atoms
  2. B
    Whether solar UV radiation reaches the deep ocean floor
  3. The physical location where early organic molecules were synthesizedAnswer
  4. D
    The role of liquid water in the survival of early life forms

Answer

The physical location where early organic molecules were synthesized
The correct option identifying the physical location of synthesis is correct because Scientist 1 states that organic molecules were synthesized in Earth's early atmosphere, while Scientist 2 states they were synthesized at deep-sea hydrothermal vents.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Identify the location proposed by Scientist 1 for the synthesis of organic molecules.
Scientist 1 claims they were synthesized in Earth's early atmosphere.
To establish Scientist 1's claim about location.
2
Identify the location proposed by Scientist 2 for the synthesis of organic molecules.
Scientist 2 claims they were synthesized at deep-sea hydrothermal vents.
To establish Scientist 2's claim about location.
3
Compare the two locations to find the point of disagreement.
Atmosphere versus deep-sea vents represents a direct conflict in physical location.
To determine the correct point of disagreement between the two viewpoints.

Key Concept

Identifying Points of Disagreement
Estimated Time:45s
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Identifying Points of Disagreement

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