Origins of Life Quiz

What is the theory called that suggests life originated from outer space?

• Abiogenesis

• Panspermia

• Biogenesis

• Astrobiology

What are molecular clouds also known as?

• Galactic nurseries

• Cosmic nurseries

• Stellar nurseries

• Universal nurseries

Which protoplanet is theorized to have collided with Earth, possibly contributing to the formation of the Moon?

• Mars

• Venus

• Thea

• Jupiter

What is the main function of RNA in the RNA world theory?

• To provide structural support

• To form cell membranes

• To catalyze reactions and store information

• To store energy

What are ribozymes capable of doing as they evolve?

• Forming cell walls

• Building nucleotides and other molecules

• Producing oxygen

• Generating light

Which scientist conducted experiments in the 1950s using electricity to form amino acids?

• Stanley Miller

• Albert Einstein

• Isaac Newton

• Charles Darwin

What natural phenomenon is suggested to have contributed to the formation of amino acids on early Earth?

• Earthquakes

• Lightning

• Tsunamis

• Solar flares

Where is the best evidence for the terrestrial origins of life found?

• In polar ice caps

• In deserts

• In deep-sea vents

• In the atmosphere

What is the significance of deep-sea vents in the context of life's origins?

• They concentrate molecules for critical reactions

• They produce oxygen

• They create magnetic fields

• They provide light for photosynthesis

What question remains about the existence of life elsewhere in the universe?

• Whether life can exist without water

• If life can survive without sunlight

• If the ingredients for life are unique to Earth

• If life exists elsewhere given the ingredients are widespread