IB Biology: A2.1-RNA First Hypothesis

Front

What is one requirement for the formation of the earliest cells?

Back

The formation of molecules that allow inheritance.

Front

What hypothesis suggests RNA was the basis for the formation of the first cell-like structure?

Back

The 'RNA first' hypothesis.

Front

According to the 'RNA first' hypothesis, what roles did RNA play in early cells?

Back

RNA acted as both genetic material and as a catalyst.

Front

How was RNA formed according to the 'RNA first' hypothesis?

Back

RNA was formed from inorganic sources.

Front

What ability did RNA have that was crucial for early cell formation?

Back

RNA was able to replicate using ribozymes.

Front

What catalytic role did RNA play in early cells?

Back

RNA was able to catalyse protein synthesis.

Front

What process occurred to help form early cells according to the hypothesis?

Back

Membrane compartmentalisation occurred.

Front

What was RNA able to produce inside the cell?

Back

RNA was able to produce both protein and DNA.

Front

Why did DNA take over as the main genetic material?

Back

DNA is more stable than RNA.

Front

Why did proteins take over as the catalytic form (enzymes)?

Back

Proteins are more capable of variability than RNA.