Conundra

There are three possible (non-mutually exclusive) sources for organic compounds:

  • Simple organic compounds like HCN, H2CO synthesized in early Earth conditions. Further reactions produce complex organics.
  • Simple organic compounds delivered to early Earth. Further reactions produce complex organics.
  • Complex organic compounds delivered to early Earth.

    We know the first of these could conceivably happen. The odds on the last two are tough to estimate, though you will study it a little in your homework.

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