Which one of the following sets of elements was primarily responsible for the origin of life on the Earth?

1. Hydrogen, Oxygen, Sodium
2. Carbon, Hydrogen, Nitrogen
3. Oxygen, Calcium, Phosphorus
4. Carbon, Hydrogen, Potassium

Explanation

Option (b) is correct

• The origin of life on Earth is primarily attributed to the presence of essential elements like Carbon (C), Hydrogen (H), Nitrogen (N), and Oxygen (O), which form the building blocks of life. Carbon forms the backbone of organic molecules like carbohydrates, proteins, lipids, and nucleic acids.
• Hydrogen is a key component of water and organic compounds, while Nitrogen is crucial for amino acids, proteins, and nucleic acids (DNA and RNA). This combination allowed for the formation of simple organic molecules and, eventually, complex life forms.

Answer: (b) Carbon, Hydrogen, Nitrogen; Difficulty Level: Medium