Question

What is the most accepted hypothesis on the origin of life on earth? How does it compare to the other main hypotheses?

Answer 1

The most accepted hypothesis on origin of life on earth - Heterotrophic hypothesis. As per this hypothesis, the first organisms on earth were heterotrophs (do not produce their own food). According to this hypothesis, the first organic molecules were derived from substances in the earth's primitive atmosphere.

The other hypotheses are spontaneous hypothesis, panspermia hypothesis and autotrophic hypothesis. According to the spontaneous hypothesis, life on earth was derived from non-living materials. According to panspermia hypothesis, the first life on earth came from outer space. According to autotrophic hypothesis, first organisms on earth were autotrophs (produced food on their own).