Final answer:
The first living cells in the Archean era were likely prokaryotic with a closed phospholipid layer, and RNA as their genetic material. Chloroplasts and mitochondria evolved later in eukaryotic cells through endosymbiosis.
Step-by-step explanation:
The first living cells to appear in the Archean era are believed to be prokaryotic, similar to modern-day Archaea and Bacteria. These ancient cells likely contained basic, but essential, cellular components such as a plasma membrane and genetic material. The correct answer to the question, "The first living cells to appear in the Archean has what key components?" is (c) closed phospholipid layer, RNA. This is because early cells required a membrane to separate their internal components from the external environment and likely used RNA as their genetic material due to its ability to store information and catalyze chemical reactions, which is essential for replication and various cellular functions. On the other hand, organelles such as chloroplasts and mitochondria evolved later through endosymbiosis with gram-negative bacteria.