Which events contributed to life evolving on Earth?

Subject : Biology

Question: Which events contributed to life evolving on Earth? Check all that apply.

A) Organisms began to photosynthesize.

B) The surface cooled, and water condensed.

C) Volcanoes added carbon dioxide to the atmosphere.

D) Ozone formed and blocked ultraviolet rays from the Sun.

E) Comets crashed into Earth, releasing water.

Expert Verified Solution

Several key events contributed to life evolving on Earth. The following events from the list provided are significant to the development of life:

Organisms began to photosynthesize.

This event was crucial because photosynthesis allowed for the production of oxygen, which eventually led to the formation of the ozone layer and supported the development of more complex life forms that depend on oxygen.

The surface cooled, and the water condensed.

As Earth cooled, water vapor condensed to form oceans. This provided the necessary environment for chemical reactions that are believed to have led to the origin of life.

Volcanoes add carbon dioxide to the atmosphere.

The release of carbon dioxide from volcanic activity contributed to the greenhouse effect, which helped to stabilize Earth’s climate and provided carbon, a key element for life.

Ozone formed and blocked ultraviolet rays from the Sun.

The formation of the ozone layer protected early life forms from harmful ultraviolet (UV) radiation, allowing them to survive and evolve on land.

Comets crashed into Earth, releasing water.

This event is believed to have contributed to the Earth’s water supply, further supporting the development of life by providing the essential ingredient for biochemical processes.

All these events played a significant role in creating the conditions necessary for life to evolve on Earth.