Question

In the Miller-Urey experiment, what was the ratio of gases used to simulate primitive Earth's atmosphere?

• A. 2:1:1 (H\(_2\): NH\(_3\): CH\(_4\))
• B. 1:1:1 (CH\(_4\): NH\(_3\): H\(_2\))
• C. 1:1:2 (CH\(_4\): NH\(_3\): H\(_2\))
• D. 1:2:1 (NH\(_3\): H\(_2\): CH\(_4\))

Hint:

The Miller-Urey experiment provided key insights into the origin of life, showing that basic organic molecules could form under early Earth conditions.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

In the Miller-Urey experiment (1953), a mixture of gases that was thought to represent the early Earth's atmosphere was subjected to electrical discharges to simulate lightning. The gas mixture used was composed of hydrogen (H\(_2\)), methane (CH\(_4\)), and ammonia (NH\(_3\)) in a 2:1:1 ratio, which produced amino acids and other organic compounds. Thus, the correct answer is 2:1:1 (H\(_2\): NH\(_3\): CH\(_4\)).