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Multiple Choice
Which of the following best describes organisms that are eukaryotic heterotrophs whose cell walls contain chitin?
A
Bacteria
B
Algae
C
Plants
D
Fungi
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the key terms in the question: 'eukaryotic,' 'heterotrophs,' 'cell walls,' and 'chitin.' Eukaryotic organisms have cells with a nucleus and membrane-bound organelles. Heterotrophs obtain their energy by consuming organic material rather than producing it themselves (like autotrophs). Chitin is a structural polysaccharide found in the cell walls of certain organisms.
Eliminate options that do not fit the description. Bacteria are prokaryotic, meaning they lack a nucleus and membrane-bound organelles, so they cannot be eukaryotic. This eliminates 'Bacteria' as an option.
Consider 'Algae.' While some algae are eukaryotic, they are primarily autotrophic (they perform photosynthesis to produce their own food) and do not have chitin in their cell walls. This eliminates 'Algae' as an option.
Evaluate 'Plants.' Plants are eukaryotic and have cell walls, but their cell walls are made of cellulose, not chitin. Additionally, plants are autotrophic, not heterotrophic. This eliminates 'Plants' as an option.
Conclude with 'Fungi.' Fungi are eukaryotic organisms, heterotrophic (they absorb nutrients from organic material), and their cell walls contain chitin. This matches all the criteria in the question, making 'Fungi' the correct answer.