Multiple Choice
Which of the following is evidence for the endosymbiotic theory?
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5. Cell Components
Endosymbiotic Theory
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Which of the following pieces of evidence supports the endosymbiotic theory?
A
Mitochondria and chloroplasts have their own circular DNA similar to bacteria.
B
Prokaryotic cells lack membrane-bound organelles.
C
Eukaryotic cells have a nucleus that contains linear DNA.
D
Eukaryotic cells can perform photosynthesis.
Verified step by step guidance1
Understand the endosymbiotic theory: It suggests that certain organelles within eukaryotic cells, such as mitochondria and chloroplasts, originated from free-living prokaryotes that were engulfed by ancestral eukaryotic cells.
Identify key characteristics of mitochondria and chloroplasts: These organelles have their own circular DNA, which is similar to the DNA found in prokaryotic cells, specifically bacteria.
Compare the DNA structure: Mitochondria and chloroplasts have circular DNA, whereas eukaryotic cells typically have linear DNA contained within a nucleus.
Consider the presence of membrane-bound organelles: Prokaryotic cells lack these, while eukaryotic cells have them, including mitochondria and chloroplasts, which supports the idea of these organelles being derived from prokaryotic ancestors.
Evaluate the ability to perform photosynthesis: While eukaryotic cells can perform photosynthesis, this ability is linked to the presence of chloroplasts, which supports the endosymbiotic theory by indicating a prokaryotic origin for these organelles.
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