What Experimental Evidence Supports Catalysis in Prebiotic Synthesis?
Experimental evidence supporting the role of catalysis in prebiotic synthesis includes:
Miller-Urey Experiment: Demonstrated the formation of amino acids from simple gases in the presence of electrical discharges, suggesting the role of energy sources as catalysts. Hydrothermal Vent Simulations: Show that metal sulfides can catalyze the formation of organic molecules under high-temperature and high-pressure conditions. Clay Catalysis Studies: Indicate that clays can facilitate the polymerization of RNA and other biomolecules.
