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Multiple Choice
Which of the following statements about endosymbiosis is correct?
A
Endosymbiosis is a process that occurs only in plants.
B
Mitochondria and chloroplasts are thought to have originated from free-living prokaryotes.
C
Endosymbiosis explains the origin of the eukaryotic nucleus.
D
Endosymbiosis suggests that eukaryotic cells evolved from archaea.
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the concept of endosymbiosis: Endosymbiosis is a theory that explains how eukaryotic cells may have evolved from prokaryotic organisms. It suggests that certain organelles, such as mitochondria and chloroplasts, originated as free-living bacteria that were engulfed by a host cell.
Identify the key organelles involved: The theory specifically involves mitochondria and chloroplasts, which are believed to have originated from proteobacteria and cyanobacteria, respectively.
Evaluate the statement about plants: Endosymbiosis is not a process exclusive to plants. While chloroplasts are found in plants and are a result of endosymbiosis, mitochondria are present in almost all eukaryotic cells, including animals and fungi.
Consider the origin of the eukaryotic nucleus: The endosymbiotic theory does not explain the origin of the eukaryotic nucleus. It focuses on the origin of mitochondria and chloroplasts.
Assess the relationship with archaea: While eukaryotic cells share some similarities with archaea, the endosymbiotic theory specifically addresses the incorporation of bacterial cells (not archaea) into a host cell to form mitochondria and chloroplasts.