Question

Arnold is reviewing the Miller-Urey experiment and similar experiments on the origins of life on Earth. In each of these experiments, several
inorganic gases were mixed in a chamber to simulate the atmosphere of early Earth. Then the gases were subjected to a spark of electricity,
which simulated a lightning bolt. The gases reacted to form simple amino acids and other organic compounds.
Arnold claims that the results of the experiments show how the first organic molecules formed on Earth
Which statement is the best evaluation of Arnold's claim?
A The claim is well justified. The results were verified by many experiments
B. The claim is well justified. The experiments tested all of the possible mechanisms for making organic molecules.
C. The claim is poorly justified. The experiments tested only one mechanism for making organic molecules; other mechanisms may exist.
D The claim may or may not be justified, depending on the conclusions of the scientists who completed the experiments.

Answer 1

Answer:

C. The claim is poorly justified. The experiments tested only one mechanism for making organic molecules; other mechanisms may exist.

Explanation:

The Miller-Urey experiment is a classic experiment and it has been used to support a hypothesis that states that abiotic synthesis in the early Earth was the cause of the formation of the organic molecules required for the life. However, although this experiment is a classic that showed how organic molecules could have derived from a primitive atmosphere, it was an experiment in controlled conditions, thereby it is imperative to obtain real evidence to support the fact that the first organic compounds were formed on early Earth.