According to the chemical evolution theory of the origin of life, which statement is true? A) Oxygen (O₂) was necessary for formation of the simple molecules of life. B) Earth's early environments, with energy provided by the sun, may have been capable of producing complex life forms. C) Small molecules that serve as the building blocks of living organisms can form under conditions that might have existed on Earth in its early history. D) The chemical content of meteorites indicates that simple molecules of life could not have been synthesized in extraterrestrial environments. E) The simple molecules of life can form only in a simulated atmosphere that is sparked with electricity.

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The chemical evolution theory proposes that small molecules that serve as the building blocks of living organisms can form under conditions that might have existed on Earth in its early history. These small molecules include amino acids, nucleotides, and sugars. The theory suggests that these molecules could have combined to form more complex molecules, eventually leading to the formation of cells and the evolution of life. Oxygen was not necessary for the formation of these molecules, and the chemical content of meteorites indicates that simple molecules of life could have been synthesized in extraterrestrial environments. While a simulated atmosphere sparked with electricity (Miller-Urey experiment) can produce some of these small molecules, it is not the only way they can form.

According to the Chemical Evolution Theory of the Origin of Life