Question

Stanley Miller simulated the conditions of pre-biotic Earth using a spark-discharge apparatus. Which organic compounds were observed by him on analyzing the end product of his experiment?

• A. Pigments
• B. Fats
• C. Nitrogen bases
• D. Amino acids

Hint:

Experiments simulating Earth’s early conditions provide insights into abiogenesis.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is D

Stanley Miller's experiment produced Amino acids.

(A) Pigments - Incorrect: No photosynthetic pigments were formed in the experiment.

(B) Fats - Incorrect: Complex lipids weren't detected in Miller-Urey's results.

(C) Nitrogen bases - Incorrect: While possible in similar experiments, these weren't Miller's primary finding.

(D) Amino acids - Correct: Glycine, alanine, and other amino acids were identified (1953 experiment).

The correct answer is (D) Amino acids, providing evidence for chemical evolution's first steps toward life.

Answer 2

Stanley Miller conducted a famous experiment in 1953 that simulated the conditions of the early Earth. He used a spark-discharge apparatus to create a mixture of gases believed to be present in the early atmosphere, including methane (CH4), ammonia (NH3), and hydrogen (H2).

After applying electric sparks (to simulate lightning), Miller found that several organic compounds, including amino acids (the building blocks of proteins), were formed.

Option (D) is correct because the experiment demonstrated that amino acids could be synthesized under prebiotic conditions.