Which of the following pieces of evidence most strongly suggests that life arises relatively easily under suitable conditions?

• A. Life on Earth is dependent on oxygen for survival.
• B. Fossil records indicate that multicellular life appeared before single-celled organisms.
• C. Laboratory experiments have shown that organic molecules can form spontaneously from simple inorganic compounds.
• D. The genetic code is identical in all living organisms.

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the question: The problem is asking which piece of evidence strongly suggests that life arises relatively easily under suitable conditions. This requires identifying evidence that supports the spontaneous formation of life under favorable conditions.
2. Analyze each option: Evaluate the relevance of each statement to the idea of life arising easily. For example, 'Life on Earth is dependent on oxygen for survival' does not directly address the ease of life's origin, but rather its current requirements.
3. Focus on laboratory experiments: The option 'Laboratory experiments have shown that organic molecules can form spontaneously from simple inorganic compounds' is directly related to the idea of life arising easily. These experiments, such as the Miller-Urey experiment, demonstrate that under suitable conditions, basic building blocks of life can form without external intervention.
4. Consider the other options: 'Fossil records indicate that multicellular life appeared before single-celled organisms' is factually incorrect, as single-celled organisms appeared first. 'The genetic code is identical in all living organisms' is evidence of common ancestry but does not address the ease of life's origin.
5. Conclude: The strongest evidence supporting the idea that life arises relatively easily under suitable conditions is the laboratory experiments showing spontaneous formation of organic molecules from inorganic compounds. This aligns with the concept of abiogenesis, the process by which life can originate from non-living matter.