BIO NMDCAT Concept of Evolution
nmdcat.online July 14, 2026

9. Which observation provides the strongest support for the hypothesis that early Earth’s atmosphere was reducing rather than oxidizing?

A. Organic compounds could accumulate without rapid oxidation.
B. Oxygen was continuously released by green plants.
C. Ozone protected Earth from ultraviolet radiation.
D. Animals consumed atmospheric oxygen.

📝 Explanation

Correct: A reducing atmosphere favored formation and stability of organic molecules. B, C, D: These conditions developed much later in Earth's history. Concept: Significance of reducing atmosphere.

📖 Additional Information

  • Organic compounds could accumulate without rapid oxidation.
  • Oxygen was continuously released by green plants.
  • Ozone protected Earth from ultraviolet radiation.
  • Animals consumed atmospheric oxygen.

Correct: A reducing atmosphere favored formation and stability of organic molecules. B, C, D: These conditions developed much later in Earth's history. Concept: Significance of reducing atmosphere.

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