Powerpoint for the notes

Organic Molecules and the Origin of Life on Earth

1953 - Stanley Miller & Harold Urey’s experiment

Experiments support the idea that abiotic synthesis of organic compounds, perhaps near volcanoes, could have occurred on early Earth = origin of life

Carbon

Carbon atoms form diverse molecules by bonding to four other atoms

1.Has 4 valence electrons

2.Forms 4 covalent bonds (single, double,triple) with a variety of atoms

(valence = ?)

Carbon: Valence Electrons and Creation of Molecules

Carbon atoms form diverse molecules by bonding to four other atoms

Can form large, complex molecules - vary in length, number and location of double bonds, & other elements

Why are organic molecules built using carbon?

▪4 valence electrons - can form 4 covalent bonds w/ itself and other atoms

▪Form single, double and triple bonds