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Multiple Choice
What is the primary importance of the photic zone in aquatic habitats?
A
It is the zone where only chemosynthetic organisms can survive.
B
It is the deepest part of the ocean where hydrothermal vents are found.
C
It is the area with the highest concentration of dissolved oxygen due to lack of light.
D
It is the region where sunlight penetrates, allowing photosynthesis to occur.
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the concept of the photic zone: The photic zone is the upper layer of aquatic habitats where sunlight can penetrate. This sunlight is essential for photosynthesis, which is the process by which plants, algae, and some bacteria convert light energy into chemical energy.
Recognize the role of photosynthesis: Photosynthesis in the photic zone produces oxygen and organic compounds, which serve as the foundation of the food web in aquatic ecosystems. This makes the photic zone crucial for supporting life in these habitats.
Eliminate incorrect options: Review the provided choices and identify why they are incorrect. For example, chemosynthetic organisms thrive in environments without sunlight, such as hydrothermal vents, not the photic zone. Similarly, the deepest parts of the ocean are aphotic zones, where sunlight does not reach.
Focus on the correct answer: The photic zone is defined by the presence of sunlight, which enables photosynthesis. This process is vital for primary producers like phytoplankton, which form the base of the aquatic food chain.
Summarize the importance: The photic zone is critical because it supports photosynthetic organisms, which produce oxygen and serve as the primary energy source for other organisms in aquatic ecosystems.