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What could the reader infer from the reading about hydrocarbons?

A Life started on other planets before it started on Earth.
B All planets and satellites in the solar system contain hydrocarbons.
С The building blocks of carbon-based life are found on planets or satellites other than Earth.
D No bodies in our solar system except Earth contain hydrocarbons.

User Josh Smith
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Final answer:

Based on the readings, hydrocarbons are present beyond Earth, suggesting that the building blocks of life could exist elsewhere in the universe, particularly on Titan, where a different form of life might exist utilizing liquid hydrocarbons.

Step-by-step explanation:

From the provided readings, the reader can infer that hydrocarbons are not only present on Earth but also on other celestial bodies within our solar system, such as Titan. The existence of hydrocarbons could indicate that the building blocks of carbon-based life can be found beyond our planet, and that life might have the potential to form with these organic compounds playing a central role.

The options provided suggest various inferences, with option C ('The building blocks of carbon-based life are found on planets or satellites other than Earth') being the most supported inference based on the information given about the presence of hydrocarbons on Titan and their fundamental role in forming complex carbon molecules essential to life on Earth. Additionally, the possibility of alternative forms of life that utilize liquid hydrocarbons in place of water on cold celestial bodies like Titan broadens our understanding of habitable environments and the potential for life in the universe.

User Ksb
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