Which of the following molecules falls under the category of protobionts ?
I. Caacervates II. Microspheres

Options

A. Only I
B. only II
C. I and II
D. None of these

Answer

To determine which of the given molecules falls under the category of protobionts, we need to analyze the definitions and characteristics of coacervates and microspheres.

### Step-by-Step Solution:

1. **Understanding Protobionts**:
- Protobionts are primitive structures that exhibit some characteristics of living cells, such as the ability to replicate and maintain an internal environment distinct from their surroundings. They do not necessarily have to be fully functional cells but must show some properties that are essential for the origin of life.

2. **Analyzing Coacervates**:
- Coacervates are formed by the aggregation of organic molecules, such as proteins and polysaccharides, in a liquid medium. They can exhibit some properties of life, such as the ability to grow and replicate. However, coacervates do not have a defined membrane separating their internal environment from the external environment.

3. **Analyzing Microspheres**:
- Microspheres, on the other hand, are formed from organic compounds and can create a lipid bilayer membrane when mixed with water. This membrane allows for partial isolation of the internal environment, which is a crucial characteristic of living cells. Microspheres can also exhibit some properties of self-replication.

4. **Conclusion**:
- Both coacervates and microspheres exhibit characteristics of protobionts. While coacervates lack a membrane, they still show properties of life. Microspheres, with their membrane, are more closely aligned with the characteristics of protobionts. Therefore, both molecules can be classified as protobionts.

5. **Final Answer**:
- The answer is: Both I (Coacervates) and II (Microspheres) fall under the category of protobionts.