Which one of the following is incorrect about the characteristics of p...
Incorrect characteristic of protobionts in the abiogenic origin of life:
The incorrect characteristic of protobionts in the abiogenic origin of life is option 'C' - They could reproduce sexually.
Explanation:
Protobionts, such as coacervates and microspheres, are hypothetical structures that are believed to have played a role in the origin of life on Earth. These structures are considered to be precursors of cells and possess certain characteristics that are essential for the development of life. However, one incorrect characteristic attributed to protobionts is the ability to reproduce sexually.
1. Partial isolation from the surroundings:
Protobionts were partially isolated from their surroundings, meaning they had a boundary or membrane that separated their internal environment from the external environment. This partial isolation allowed for the concentration and accumulation of molecules necessary for the development of life.
2. Maintenance of an internal environment:
Protobionts were capable of maintaining an internal environment, which is crucial for the processes of metabolism and homeostasis. This internal environment provided a controlled environment for chemical reactions and the maintenance of essential conditions for life.
3. Separation of combinations of molecules from the surroundings:
Protobionts had the ability to selectively separate combinations of molecules from the surroundings. This ability allowed for the concentration and accumulation of specific molecules necessary for the development of life, such as organic compounds and biomolecules.
4. Incorrect: Inability to reproduce sexually:
The incorrect characteristic of protobionts is the ability to reproduce sexually. Sexual reproduction involves the fusion of genetic material from two parent organisms, resulting in offspring with a combination of traits from both parents. However, protobionts are considered to be primitive structures that existed before the evolution of sexual reproduction. They are believed to have reproduced through simpler mechanisms such as replication or division.
In summary, protobionts, such as coacervates and microspheres, are thought to have played a crucial role in the abiogenic origin of life. While they possessed characteristics such as partial isolation from the surroundings, maintenance of an internal environment, and the ability to selectively separate combinations of molecules, they did not have the ability to reproduce sexually.
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