AP BIOLOGY

Detailed explanation-1: -The first cells were most likely primitive prokaryotic-like cells, even more simplistic than these E. coli bacteria. The first cells were probably no more than organic compounds, such as a simplistic RNA, surrounded by a membrane.

Detailed explanation-2: -We now know that prokaryotes were likely the first forms of cellular life on Earth, and they existed for billions of years before plants and animals appeared. The Earth and its moon are dated at about 4.54 billion years in age.

Detailed explanation-3: -Eukaryotes evolved during the Proterozoic eon approximately 1.6 BYA. Prior to the origin of eukaryotes, all life on Earth was prokaryotic (lacking nucleus or other membrane-bound organelles).

Detailed explanation-4: -“The first cells would have likely been primitive prokaryotic cells which may have only had organic compounds such as RNA surrounded by a membrane. Based on fossil evidence, prokaryotes appeared on Earth 3.5 to 3.8 billion years ago-making them the first inhabitants on Earth.”