Question

Miller performed experiment to prove abiogenic molecular evolution of life. Which molecule was not present in Miller's experiment?

• A. oxygen
• B. water
• C. methane
• D. ammonia

Answer 1

Answer: (A)

oxygen

Answer 2

Stanley Miller designed an apparatus for simulating conditions prevalent on earth at the time of abiogenic evolution of organic substances. The apparatus had a spark chamber with two electrodes, a flask for boiling and a condenser. Miller worked on the proposed hypothesis of Oparin and Haldane that the first form life originated from pre-existing non-living molecules. In his experiment, he used a mixture of methane, ammonia, hydrogen and water. The mixture was exposed to electric discharges, followed by condensation and thert boilihg. He analysed the chemical composition of the liquid inside the apparatus and found a large number of simple organic'compounds including some amino adds. Miller proved that organic compounds were basis of life.