Imagine That NASA's Next Probe to One of Jupiter's Moons

question 105

Multiple Choice

Imagine that NASA's next probe to one of Jupiter's moons takes a sample from one of its methane lakes.Pictures taken under a microscope reveal a cell-like structure remarkably similar to that of a simple prokaryotic organism.NASA calls it a "Xenop." Based on the textbook's discussion of the common aspects of living organisms on Earth, which of the following pieces of information about the Xenop is paired with its logical conclusion?

• A) The Xenop is the same size and shape as some prokaryotes and, therefore, is or was a living organism.
• B) The Xenop contains different nucleic acids and amino acids from organisms on Earth and, therefore, is not and never was a living organism.
• C) The Xenop can go many years without extracting energy from its environment and, therefore, is not and never was a living organism.
• D) The Xenop does not contain genetic information or reproduce and, therefore, is not and never was a living organism.
• E) The Xenop contains complex molecules and, therefore, is or was a living organism.

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Definitions:

Infibulation

A form of female genital mutilation that involves the narrowing of the vaginal opening through the creation of a covering seal.

Urinary Tract

The system in the human body responsible for producing, storing, and eliminating urine, consisting of kidneys, ureters, bladder, and urethra.

Outer Lips

The external folds of skin surrounding the openings of the vagina, also known as the labia majora in human anatomy.

Abstinence-Based

Pertaining to approaches or programs, especially in substance use or sexuality education, that promote refraining from certain behaviors.