The Question is from neet-zoology , and it was created by the author A SUBRAMANYAM

Question

Which of the following is a critical argument against the theory of panspermia related to the origin of life on Earth?

A SUBRAMANYAM · Accepted Answer

## CORE INFORMATION
✓ **Answer**: D
## CONCEPT FRAMEWORK
 **Primary Concept**: Panspermia and the Origin of Life
 **Related Topics**: Exobiology, Astrobiology, Extremophiles
 **Prerequisites**: Basic understanding of cell biology, genetics, and the challenges of space travel.
## SOLUTION PATHWAY
**Given Information**:
The question asks for a critical argument *against* the theory of panspermia.
Panspermia proposes that life exists throughout the Universe, distributed via meteoroids, asteroids, and comets.
**Method & Steps**:
1. Evaluate each option in the context of panspermia.
  Reasoning: We need to identify the option that presents a significant challenge to the viability of panspermia.
  Formula/Rule: N/A
2. Analyze the strengths and weaknesses of each argument.
  Working: Option A supports panspermia by showing organic molecules can travel through space. Option B, while interesting, doesn't directly address the feasibility of interstellar transfer. Option C shows life's resilience but doesn't address the transfer itself. Option D directly challenges the survival of life during the harsh journey through space.
  Key Point:  The plausibility of panspermia hinges on the ability of life to survive the extreme conditions of space travel.
3. Identify the most compelling argument against panspermia.
  Result: Option D is the strongest argument against panspermia because it highlights the significant challenges of surviving the radiation, temperature extremes, and vacuum of space during interstellar travel.  The harsh conditions are likely to destroy any known life forms before they reach another planet.
  Verification:  The other options either support or are tangential to the central issue of interstellar transfer and survival.
 ## OPTION ANALYSIS
A :x: Meteorites containing organic molecules support the idea that organic building blocks can travel through space, bolstering panspermia.
B :x: A common genetic code suggests a common ancestor, which is consistent with but doesn't directly challenge panspermia.
C :x: Extremophiles demonstrate life's adaptability, but this doesn't address the challenges of interstellar travel.
D ✓: The harsh conditions of space pose a significant obstacle to the survival of life during interstellar travel, representing a critical argument against panspermia.
 ## LEARNING AIDS
 **Common Mistakes**:
  1.Confusing evidence supporting panspermia with arguments against it:  Carefully distinguish between evidence suggesting the possibility of transfer and evidence challenging the survival of life during transfer.
  2.Overlooking the environmental challenges of space travel:  The extreme conditions of space are a major hurdle for panspermia.
 **Quick Tips**:
  1.Focus on the challenges of survival during interstellar travel when evaluating arguments against panspermia.
  2.Remember that panspermia relies on life surviving a potentially lethal journey through space.

A SUBRAMANYAM · Answer

Meteorites have been found to contain organic molecules.

A SUBRAMANYAM · Answer

Life on Earth shares a common genetic code.

A SUBRAMANYAM · Answer

Microbial life has been found in extreme environments on Earth.

A SUBRAMANYAM · Answer

The correct Option is "The harsh conditions of space, including radiation and extreme temperatures, would likely destroy any known life forms during interstellar travel."

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