A2.1 Origins of cells (Cells, HL): Practice Questions

The RNA world hypothesis proposes that RNA played a crucial role in early life forms, functioning as both genetic material and what else?

Which piece of evidence regarding the genetic material of mitochondria and chloroplasts best supports the endosymbiotic theory in the origins of cells (HL)?

If a scientist were to find evidence that the first catalysts on Earth were mineral surfaces rather than RNA, how would this affect the RNA World hypothesis?

What is a defining characteristic of the hypothetical "RNA World"?

Beyond the "primordial soup," what alternative environments are hypothesized to have played a significant role in the abiotic synthesis and polymerization of organic molecules, offering both energy and catalytic surfaces?

Outline why the presence of 70S ribosomes in both mitochondria and chloroplasts provides evidence for the endosymbiotic theory of the origins of cells (HL).

Explain the role of hydrothermal vents in the hypothesis regarding the spontaneous origin of life, specifically focusing on energy and concentration of molecules.

The "RNA world" hypothesis proposes an early stage of life where RNA, rather than DNA or proteins, performed key biological functions. Beyond storing genetic information, what two critical roles could RNA have played in this hypothetical early life?

The "RNA world" hypothesis proposes that RNA, rather than DNA or protein, played a central role in early life.

(a) Outline the main arguments supporting the RNA world hypothesis, specifically mentioning at least two key properties of RNA that make it suitable for this role.
(b) Discuss the major challenge or limitation of the RNA world hypothesis when considering the transition to cellular life as we know it today.