What did S.L. Miller observe in his experimental set-up?

Options

A. Formation of sugars and nitrogenous bases
B. Formation of amino acids
C. Formation of pigments
D. Formation of fats

Answer

**Step-by-Step Solution:**

1. **Understanding the Experiment**: S.L. Miller, along with Stanley Urey, conducted an experiment to simulate the conditions of primitive Earth. Their goal was to explore the chemical origins of life.

2. **Setting Up Conditions**: In their experimental setup, they created a closed flask that mimicked the early Earth's atmosphere. This flask contained gases such as methane (CH4), hydrogen (H2), and ammonia (NH3).

3. **Simulating Electric Discharge**: To replicate the energy sources that might have been present on early Earth, they introduced electric discharges into the flask. This was meant to simulate lightning or other energy sources that could drive chemical reactions.

4. **Temperature Conditions**: The experiment was conducted at a high temperature of around 8000 degrees Celsius, which facilitated the reactions among the gases.

5. **Observations**: After running the experiment for a period, Miller observed the formation of amino acids. These amino acids are the building blocks of proteins, which are essential for life.

6. **Conclusion**: The key observation from Miller's experiment was the successful synthesis of amino acids, supporting the idea that organic compounds necessary for life could form under prebiotic conditions.

**Final Answer**: S.L. Miller observed the formation of amino acids in his experimental setup.

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