Join thousands of students who trust us to help them ace their exams!Watch the first video
Multiple Choice
Plants are described as photoautotrophs. What does this mean?
A
They use chemical energy from inorganic molecules to produce food.
B
They rely solely on stored food reserves for energy.
C
They use light energy to synthesize organic molecules from inorganic substances.
D
They obtain energy by consuming other organisms.
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the term 'photoautotroph': Break it down into 'photo-' meaning light and 'autotroph' meaning an organism that produces its own food. Photoautotrophs use light energy to create their own food.
Recall the process of photosynthesis: Plants use light energy, water (H₂O), and carbon dioxide (CO₂) to synthesize glucose (C₆H₁₂O₆) and oxygen (O₂). This is the primary mechanism by which photoautotrophs produce organic molecules.
Compare the options provided: Evaluate each statement to determine which aligns with the definition of photoautotrophs. For example, photoautotrophs do not rely on stored food reserves or consume other organisms for energy.
Focus on the correct answer: Photoautotrophs use light energy to synthesize organic molecules from inorganic substances, such as CO₂ and H₂O, which is consistent with the process of photosynthesis.
Conclude by connecting the concept to plant biology: Plants are photoautotrophs because they harness light energy through chlorophyll in their chloroplasts to drive the synthesis of organic molecules, supporting their growth and energy needs.