Which one of the following incorrect about the characteristic of protobionts (coacervates and microspheres) as envisaged in abiogenic origin of life ?

Options

A. They were able to reproduce
B. They could separate combinations of molecules from the surroundings
C. They were partially isolated from the surroundings
D. They could maintain an internal environment

Explanation

To solve the question regarding the characteristics of protobionts (coacervates and microspheres) in the context of the abiogenic origin of life, we will analyze each statement provided in the options.

### Step-by-Step Solution:

1. **Understanding Protobionts**:
- Protobionts are primitive structures that are considered precursors to living cells. They include coacervates and microspheres, which are aggregates of organic molecules.

2. **Analyzing Each Option**:
- **Option A**: "They were able to reproduce."
- **Analysis**: Protobionts can reproduce through processes like budding or binary fission. This statement is correct.

- **Option B**: "They could separate combinations of molecules from the surroundings."
- **Analysis**: Protobionts can indeed separate and concentrate certain molecules from their environment. This statement is also correct.

- **Option C**: "They were partially isolated from the surroundings."
- **Analysis**: Protobionts are not fully isolated; they interact with their environment but maintain some level of separation. This statement is correct.

- **Option D**: "They could maintain an internal environment."
- **Analysis**: This statement refers to homeostasis. While protobionts can reproduce and interact with their environment, they do not exhibit true homeostasis as living cells do. This statement is incorrect.

3. **Conclusion**:
- The incorrect statement regarding the characteristics of protobionts is **Option D**: "They could maintain an internal environment."

### Final Answer:
The incorrect statement about the characteristics of protobionts is: **They could maintain an internal environment.**