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Multiple Choice
Which of the following cycles is essential to all living organisms?
A
The lunar cycle
B
The carbon cycle
C
The tectonic cycle
D
The rock cycle
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the context of the question: The problem is asking which cycle is essential to all living organisms. This means we need to identify a cycle that directly impacts life processes such as energy flow, nutrient cycling, or cellular functions.
Analyze the options provided: The lunar cycle, tectonic cycle, and rock cycle are not directly involved in the biological processes of living organisms. However, the carbon cycle is crucial for life as it involves the movement of carbon through the atmosphere, biosphere, hydrosphere, and geosphere.
Recall the importance of the carbon cycle: The carbon cycle is essential because it regulates the availability of carbon, a key element in organic molecules like carbohydrates, proteins, lipids, and nucleic acids. It also plays a role in photosynthesis and cellular respiration.
Eliminate incorrect options: The lunar cycle relates to the moon's phases, the tectonic cycle involves the movement of Earth's plates, and the rock cycle describes the formation and transformation of rocks. None of these are directly essential to all living organisms.
Conclude that the correct answer is the carbon cycle, as it is fundamental to the survival and functioning of all living organisms by maintaining the balance of carbon in ecosystems.