Which of the following best describes the scientific explanation for the origin of life on Earth, as opposed to traditional creation stories that describe Earth emerging from a vast expanse of water?

• A. Life was created instantly by supernatural beings from water.
• B. Life has always existed on Earth in its current form.
• C. Life originated through natural processes such as chemical evolution and natural selection.
• D. Life appeared on Earth due to the arrival of organisms from another planet.

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Begin by understanding the scientific explanation for the origin of life on Earth. This explanation is rooted in natural processes, such as chemical evolution and natural selection, rather than supernatural or extraterrestrial causes.
2. Step 2: Explore the concept of chemical evolution. This refers to the gradual formation of complex organic molecules from simpler inorganic compounds, driven by natural chemical reactions under early Earth conditions.
3. Step 3: Investigate the role of natural selection in the origin of life. Once self-replicating molecules emerged, natural selection would favor those molecules that were more efficient at replication and survival, leading to the development of increasingly complex life forms.
4. Step 4: Compare the scientific explanation to traditional creation stories. Traditional stories often involve supernatural beings or events, while the scientific explanation relies on observable and testable natural processes.
5. Step 5: Recognize that the scientific explanation for the origin of life is supported by evidence from fields such as biochemistry, geology, and molecular biology, whereas traditional creation stories are based on cultural and religious beliefs.