Evolution Question 31

31. Which one of the following is incorrect about the characteristics of protobionts (coacervates and microspheres) as envisaged in the biogenic origin of life?

[2008]

(a) They were able to reproduce

(b) They could separate combinations of molecules from the surroundings

(c) They were partially isolated from the surroundings

(d) They could maintain an internal environment

Show Answer

Answer : b

Hints & Solution

(b) Coacervate is an aggregate of macromolecules such as proteins, lipids and membrane, and contain enzymes that are capable of converting substance such as glucose into more complex molecules, such as starch. Coacervate droplets arise spontaneously under appropriate conditions and may have been the prebiological systems from which living organisms originated.