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Multiple Choice
Oxygenic photosynthesis is carried out by which of the following organisms?
A
Green sulfur bacteria
B
Purple sulfur bacteria
C
Methanogenic archaea
D
Cyanobacteria
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the concept of oxygenic photosynthesis: Oxygenic photosynthesis is the process by which organisms use light energy to convert carbon dioxide and water into glucose and oxygen. This process requires the presence of chlorophyll and occurs in organisms capable of splitting water molecules to release oxygen.
Identify the organisms capable of oxygenic photosynthesis: Cyanobacteria, algae, and plants are the primary organisms that perform oxygenic photosynthesis. These organisms contain chlorophyll and use water as an electron donor, releasing oxygen as a byproduct.
Differentiate between oxygenic and anoxygenic photosynthesis: Anoxygenic photosynthesis does not produce oxygen and is carried out by organisms like green sulfur bacteria and purple sulfur bacteria. These organisms use other electron donors, such as hydrogen sulfide, instead of water.
Eliminate incorrect options: Green sulfur bacteria and purple sulfur bacteria perform anoxygenic photosynthesis, not oxygenic photosynthesis. Methanogenic archaea are not photosynthetic organisms; they produce methane in anaerobic conditions.
Conclude that cyanobacteria are the correct answer: Cyanobacteria are prokaryotic organisms capable of oxygenic photosynthesis. They play a crucial role in producing oxygen and are considered ancestors of chloroplasts in plants and algae.