Chapter 25.4, Problem 2LO

Summary Introduction

To argue: The plate tectonics has affected the evolution of life forms on Earth.

Introduction: An uncontrollably dynamic environment, which shifts between a frozen and fiery Earth, was implausible to have supported life forms. The early atmosphere of Earth was comprised of CO₂ at high levels and it affected the temperature. Over 2 million years, Earth cooled forming silicate clouds. These clouds condensed and rained down, thereby forming the ocean. The level of CO₂ in the atmosphere decreased and Earth cooled further. Organic molecules are formed from the inorganic molecules well before the appearance of cells showing the properties of life.