Question

Describe the contributions made by Oparin, Haldane, Miller, and Urey toward understanding the origin of organic molecules.

Answer 1

Answer:

The theory of Oparin and Haldane was based on the fact that the primitive atmosphere was very different from the current atmosphere, since energy was abundant on the young planet. Both proposed that the appearance of life was preceded by a period they called "chemical evolution."

On the other hand, Miller Urey made an experiment where it was shown that some organic components were formed spontaneously if they were simulating the conditions of the Earth's early atmosphere.

Explanation:

The first hypotheses about the origin of life on Earth were suggested by Oparin and Haldane, who worked independently. Oparin presented his ideas on the origin of life in the year of 1922 by publishing them in the year of 1924. For his part, Haldane published similar ideas in 1929, however, Haldane gave priority to Oparin in the formulation of the theory.

Oparin based his hypotheses using a model he called "coacervates", which are colloidal systems formed by macromolecules that formed in aqueous media and would have evolved to form cells with membranes. According to Oparin, living beings modified the primitive atmosphere and this would have prevented, the formation of life from inorganic substances.

The Miller and Urey experiments helped reinforce the theory that the first way of life was created spontaneously through chemical reactions. However, there are still many scientists who are not convinced.