Join thousands of students who trust us to help them ace their exams!Watch the first video
Multiple Choice
How do producers in the aphotic zone differ from those in the photic zone?
A
Producers in the aphotic zone are primarily multicellular algae.
B
Producers in the aphotic zone rely on oxygenic photosynthesis using chlorophyll a.
C
Producers in the aphotic zone obtain energy through chemosynthesis rather than photosynthesis.
D
Producers in the aphotic zone use sunlight to drive photosynthesis more efficiently than those in the photic zone.
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the difference between the aphotic zone and the photic zone: The photic zone is the upper layer of water where sunlight penetrates, allowing photosynthesis to occur. The aphotic zone is deeper and lacks sufficient sunlight for photosynthesis.
Recognize the energy acquisition methods of producers in each zone: Producers in the photic zone use sunlight to perform photosynthesis, converting light energy into chemical energy. In contrast, producers in the aphotic zone cannot rely on sunlight due to the absence of light.
Learn about chemosynthesis: Producers in the aphotic zone obtain energy through chemosynthesis, a process where chemical energy from inorganic compounds (e.g., hydrogen sulfide or methane) is used to produce organic molecules. This is distinct from photosynthesis, which relies on light energy.
Identify the types of producers in the aphotic zone: Producers in the aphotic zone are typically microorganisms, such as bacteria, that are adapted to perform chemosynthesis. Multicellular algae are not common in this zone due to the lack of light.
Compare the efficiency of energy acquisition: Producers in the photic zone use sunlight efficiently for photosynthesis, while producers in the aphotic zone rely on chemosynthesis, which is adapted to their unique environment but does not involve sunlight.