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Multiple Choice
Which group of organisms in the ocean is primarily responsible for absorbing the most carbon dioxide during photosynthesis?
A
Marine mammals
B
Phytoplankton
C
Zooplankton
D
Coral polyps
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the process of photosynthesis: Photosynthesis is the process by which organisms use sunlight, carbon dioxide (CO₂), and water to produce glucose and oxygen. In the ocean, certain organisms are responsible for this process.
Identify the primary producers in the ocean: Primary producers are organisms that can perform photosynthesis. In the ocean, these are typically microscopic organisms like phytoplankton, which are capable of absorbing CO₂ and converting it into organic compounds.
Differentiate between the groups listed: Marine mammals, zooplankton, and coral polyps do not perform photosynthesis. Marine mammals are consumers, zooplankton are primarily heterotrophic organisms that feed on phytoplankton, and coral polyps rely on symbiotic algae for photosynthesis but do not absorb significant amounts of CO₂ themselves.
Recognize the role of phytoplankton: Phytoplankton are microscopic algae that float near the surface of the ocean. They are responsible for absorbing the majority of CO₂ during photosynthesis due to their abundance and widespread distribution.
Conclude that phytoplankton are the correct answer: Based on their ability to perform photosynthesis and their ecological importance, phytoplankton are the group of organisms in the ocean primarily responsible for absorbing the most carbon dioxide during photosynthesis.