________ formed the semipermeable membrane-like surfaces for the earliest life forms.
A) Proteins
B) Hydrogen sulfide
C) Lipid bilayers
D) RNA

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Lipid bilayers are the most likely to have formed the semipermeable membrane-like surfaces for the earliest life forms. Lipid molecules can self-assemble into a bilayer structure in water, where the hydrophilic heads face outward and the hydrophobic tails are shielded inside, creating a barrier that allows some molecules to pass through while blocking others. This property would have been crucial for the emergence of living cells, allowing them to maintain a distinct internal environment and interact selectively with their surroundings. Proteins and RNA are essential components of modern cells but are not thought to have been present in the simplest proto-cells, while hydrogen sulfide is not a likely candidate for forming cellular membranes.

________ Formed the Semipermeable Membrane-Like Surfaces for the Earliest Life