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A2.1.9—Evolution near hydrothermal vents

Hydrothermal vents provide heat, mineral-rich water, inorganic chemicals, catalytic surfaces, and persistent chemical gradients that could drive prebiotic synthesis in the deep ocean.

Syllabus
First assessment 2025
Objective
A2.1.9
Level
HL

Concept essentials

  • Hydrothermal circulation supplies heat and reactive inorganic chemicals.
  • Mineral-rich plumes and surfaces can support or catalyse molecular assembly.
  • Chemical gradients provide a potential energy source for prebiotic reactions.
  • Hydrothermal vents are a plausible hypothesis, not a proven birthplace of life.
ConceptIB Biology HL