Question

Stanley Miller conducted an experiment to demonstrate that simple organic molecules like amino acids could be produced if an electric discharge is passed through a mixture of such gases as might have been present in the atmosphere of early earth. The gaseous mixture he used in the experiment were

• A. Methane, ammonia, hydrogen, water vapours
• B. Methane, ammonia, nitrogen, water vapours
• C. Methane, nitrogen, hydrogen, water vapours
• D. Ammonia, carbon dioxide, nitrogen, water vapours

Answer 1

Answer: (A)

Miller circulated water methane, ammonia, and hydrogen in an airtight container and heated to vaporize them. The vapour of mixture is induced by an electric discharge with the help of electrode at 800${}^o$C. The mixtures were allowed to pass through a condenser. The obtained liquid consisted of simple organic matter which further polymerizes to form complex organic molecule which can further generate life.

So, the correct answer is option A.