Evolution 1

What occurred 13.7 billion years ago?

The Big Bang.

What significant event happened 4.6 billion years ago?

Formation of Earth.

What is the first evidence of life known to date?

Unicellular organisms, specifically bacteria, around 3.5 billion years ago.

Which theory explains the origin of certain organelles in eukaryotic cells?

Endosymbiosis theory.

What does DNA stand for and what is its role?

Deoxyribonucleic acid, which carries genetic information.

What does the geological timescale provide?

It helps to understand the vast number of years in Earth’s history.

How could organic molecules be formed from inorganic molecules?

The conditions present at the time facilitated this process.

What is the first process of life according to the four processes discussed?

The non-living synthesis of simple organic molecules.

What is necessary for something to be considered 'alive'?

It must be able to replicate.

What are mitochondria and chloroplasts believed to have originated from?

Free-living prokaryotic organisms that entered into a symbiotic relationship with ancestral eukaryotic cells.

What is the significance of membranes in early cells?

They provide protection and create an internal chemistry different from their surroundings.

What kind of molecules can self-replicate, according to the notes?

Some forms of RNA.

What does cellular respiration involve in terms of energy transformation?

Mitochondria transform chemically bound energy into ATP.

What do chloroplasts capture and convert?

They absorb light energy and convert it into chemically bound energy through photosynthesis.