A compound important in prebiotic evolution was

Options

A. `SO_(2)`
B. `CH_(4)`
C. `SO_(3)`
D. NO

Answer

**Step-by-Step Solution:**

1. **Understanding Prebiotic Evolution**:
- Prebiotic evolution refers to the stage of evolution that occurred before the existence of living organisms. It is characterized by the formation of simple molecules that eventually led to the emergence of life.

2. **Conditions of Primitive Earth**:
- The primitive Earth had a reducing atmosphere, meaning it lacked free oxygen. Instead, it was composed of gases such as water vapor, carbon dioxide, carbon monoxide, nitrogen, and methane.

3. **Formation of Simple Inorganic Molecules**:
- Under the influence of energy sources like UV light, these simple gases combined to form simple inorganic molecules. This process involved various chemical reactions.

4. **Key Compounds in Prebiotic Evolution**:
- The simple inorganic molecules formed included methane, ammonia, and water. These molecules are crucial as they are the building blocks for more complex organic molecules.

5. **Complex Organic Molecules Formation**:
- From these simple inorganic molecules, complex organic molecules such as amino acids, sugars, and fatty acids were formed. These complex molecules are essential for the development of life.

6. **Identifying the Correct Compound**:
- The question asks for a compound important in prebiotic evolution from the options given: sulfur dioxide, methane, sulfur trioxide, and nitrogen oxide.
- Methane (option B) is recognized as a significant compound in prebiotic evolution due to its role in forming the basic building blocks of life.

7. **Conclusion**:
- Therefore, the correct answer to the question is **methane**.

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