Join thousands of students who trust us to help them ace their exams!Watch the first video
Multiple Choice
How are phosphates incorporated into organic molecules in aquatic plants and animals?
A
Via conversion of phosphates into nitrogenous bases before incorporation
B
By direct absorption of organic phosphate from animal tissues only
C
Through passive diffusion of phosphate across cell membranes without any metabolic processing
D
Through assimilation of inorganic phosphate ions (PO_4^{3-}) during the synthesis of nucleic acids and ATP
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the role of phosphates in biological systems: Phosphates are essential for the synthesis of nucleic acids (DNA and RNA) and ATP, which are critical for energy transfer and genetic information storage in living organisms.
Recognize the chemical form of phosphate: Inorganic phosphate ions are typically represented as , which are absorbed and utilized by aquatic plants and animals.
Learn the process of assimilation: Aquatic plants and animals assimilate inorganic phosphate ions from their environment, incorporating them into organic molecules during metabolic processes such as the synthesis of nucleotides (building blocks of nucleic acids) and ATP.
Understand the metabolic pathways: Inorganic phosphate ions are enzymatically incorporated into organic molecules through phosphorylation reactions, which are catalyzed by specific enzymes like kinases during cellular metabolism.
Clarify the incorrect options: Phosphates are not converted into nitrogenous bases, nor are they absorbed exclusively from animal tissues. Passive diffusion alone is insufficient for metabolic incorporation; active processes are required for assimilation into organic molecules.