Multiple Choice
In the context of nitrogen fixation, what role do lichens play in helping to create soil during primary succession?
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35. Soil
Nitrogen Fixation
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How must carnivores obtain their nitrogen?
A
By consuming other animals that contain nitrogen-rich compounds
B
By absorbing nitrate ($NO_3^-$) from the soil through their skin
C
By directly fixing atmospheric nitrogen ($N_2$) through specialized enzymes
D
By photosynthesizing and converting carbon dioxide into nitrogenous compounds
Verified step by step guidance1
Understand the role of nitrogen in biological systems: Nitrogen is a critical element for building proteins, nucleic acids, and other essential molecules in living organisms.
Recognize that carnivores are animals that primarily consume other animals. They cannot directly fix atmospheric nitrogen ($N_2$) or absorb nitrate ($NO_3^-$) from the soil, as these processes are typically performed by plants, bacteria, or fungi.
Identify the source of nitrogen for carnivores: Carnivores obtain nitrogen by consuming the tissues of other animals, which are rich in nitrogen-containing compounds such as proteins and nucleic acids.
Eliminate incorrect options: Carnivores do not photosynthesize, as they lack chloroplasts and the ability to convert carbon dioxide into nitrogenous compounds. They also do not absorb nitrate through their skin or fix atmospheric nitrogen directly.
Conclude that the correct method for carnivores to obtain nitrogen is by consuming other animals that contain nitrogen-rich compounds, such as proteins and nucleic acids.
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