All Flashcards
What is the effect of early Earth's atmosphere having little free oxygen?
It allowed for the formation of complex organic molecules from inorganic precursors, as oxidation was minimized.
What is the effect of ribozymes having catalytic activity?
Supports the RNA world hypothesis by showing RNA can act as both genetic material and catalyst.
What is the effect of endosymbiosis?
The evolution of eukaryotic cells with mitochondria and chloroplasts.
What is the effect of cells differentiating and performing specific functions in multicellular organisms?
Increased complexity, size, and protection for the organism.
What are the key differences between Abiogenesis and Panspermia?
Abiogenesis: Life originates from non-living matter on Earth. Panspermia: Organic molecules originate from space and are transported to Earth.
What are the key differences between prokaryotes and eukaryotes?
Prokaryotes: No nucleus, simple structure. Eukaryotes: Nucleus present, complex organelles.
Compare colonial organisms and true multicellular organisms.
Colonial Organisms: Cells live together but may not have specialized functions. True Multicellular Organisms: Cells are organized into tissues and organs with distinct functions.
What is Abiogenesis?
The theory that life arose from non-living matter through the gradual synthesis of organic molecules from inorganic precursors.
What is Panspermia?
The hypothesis that organic molecules were transported to Earth via meteorites or other celestial events.
What are Stromatolites?
Layered sedimentary structures formed by microbial communities, providing early evidence of life.
What are Ribozymes?
RNA molecules with catalytic activity, supporting the RNA world hypothesis.
What is Endosymbiosis?
The theory that eukaryotic cells evolved from symbiotic relationships between prokaryotes.
Define 'RNA world' hypothesis.
The hypothesis that RNA was the primary form of genetic material in early life, capable of both storing information and catalyzing reactions.