There are several hypotheses considered for the pathway to life. The "replicator first" hypothesis has several problems including
A) RNA cannot be a catalyst.
B) polymers of nucleic acid monomers have not been detected in the prebiotic model systems.
C) questions about the source of energy for the prebiotic synthesis of RNA.
D) DNA is not self-catalytic.
E) b, c, and d

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Choice A is incorrect as RNA is known to be a catalyst in many biological processes. Choice B is correct as there is no evidence of the formation of nucleic acid polymers in prebiotic model systems. Choice C is also correct as the source of energy for prebiotic synthesis of RNA is still being investigated. Choice D is also correct as DNA requires enzymes for its replication and is not self-catalytic. Therefore, choices B, C, and D are the main problems with the "replicator first" hypothesis.

There Are Several Hypotheses Considered for the Pathway to Life