The Question is from neet-botany molecular-basis-of-inheritance , and it was created by the author Mr. NARESH KUMAR K

Question

Which prebiotic condition would have MOST significantly hindered the formation of stable RNA polymers in the early Earth environment?

Mr. NARESH KUMAR K · Accepted Answer

## CORE INFORMATION
✓ **Answer**: C
## CONCEPT FRAMEWORK
 **Primary Concept**: Prebiotic chemistry and RNA world hypothesis
 **Related Topics**:  RNA polymerization, RNA hydrolysis, metal ion catalysis, early Earth conditions
 **Prerequisites**: Basic understanding of chemical reactions, catalysis, and the role of RNA in biology.
## SOLUTION PATHWAY
**Given Information**:
  The question asks about the prebiotic condition that most significantly hindered the formation of stable RNA polymers.
  Options describe various conditions present on early Earth.
**Method & Steps**:
 1. Analyze each option's effect on RNA stability.
  Reasoning: We need to identify the condition that would most likely break down or prevent the formation of RNA polymers.
 2. Evaluate the impact of each option on RNA polymerization and hydrolysis.
  Working: 
        * **Option A (Abundance of organic molecules):** This would likely *facilitate* RNA formation, providing the necessary building blocks.  It's not hindering.
        * **Option B (Presence of clay minerals):** Clay minerals can act as catalysts, *promoting* RNA polymerization. This isn't hindering.
        * **Option C (High concentrations of metal ions):** Many metal ions can catalyze the *hydrolysis* of RNA, breaking down the polymer. This is a strong hindering factor.
        * **Option D (Alternating cycles of wetting and drying):** While this could potentially concentrate monomers, it's less directly detrimental to RNA stability than metal-catalyzed hydrolysis.
 3. Identify the most significant hindering factor.
  Result: High concentrations of metal ions (Option C) would be the most significant hindrance because they directly catalyze the breakdown of RNA, preventing stable polymer formation.
  Verification: The other options either promote RNA formation or have a less direct negative impact compared to metal-catalyzed hydrolysis.
 ## OPTION ANALYSIS
A :x: An abundance of organic molecules would be beneficial for RNA formation, providing the necessary building blocks.
B :x: The presence of clay minerals can catalyze RNA polymerization, facilitating its formation.
C ✓: High concentrations of metal ions would catalyze RNA hydrolysis, breaking down the RNA polymers and preventing their formation. This is the most significant hindering factor.
D :x: While alternating cycles of wetting and drying could have some impact, it is less significant than the direct catalytic breakdown caused by metal ions.
 ## LEARNING AIDS
 **Common Mistakes**:
  1.Confusing catalysis with hydrolysis:  Understanding that some catalysts promote formation while others promote breakdown is crucial.
  2.Overlooking the relative impact:  Comparing the magnitude of the effect of each condition on RNA stability is key.
 **Quick Tips**:
  1.Focus on the process of RNA hydrolysis and the role of metal ions as catalysts in this process.
  2.Remember that prebiotic conditions were not necessarily conducive to the formation of complex molecules; many factors actively worked against it.

Mr. NARESH KUMAR K · Answer

An abundance of organic molecules like amino acids and nucleotides

Mr. NARESH KUMAR K · Answer

The presence of clay minerals that can catalyze RNA polymerization

Mr. NARESH KUMAR K · Answer

The correct Option is "High concentrations of metal ions that catalyze RNA hydrolysis"

Mr. NARESH KUMAR K · Answer

Alternating cycles of wetting and drying

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