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Multiple Choice
How did the earliest organisms on Earth most likely produce ATP?
A
Through anaerobic glycolysis
B
Via photosynthesis
C
By aerobic respiration using oxygen
D
Through fermentation using sunlight
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the context of the problem: The earliest organisms on Earth existed in an environment where oxygen was not yet abundant in the atmosphere. This means aerobic respiration, which requires oxygen, was not possible.
Recall the process of ATP production: ATP (adenosine triphosphate) is the primary energy currency of cells. Organisms can produce ATP through various pathways, including glycolysis, fermentation, photosynthesis, and aerobic respiration.
Analyze anaerobic glycolysis: Glycolysis is a metabolic pathway that breaks down glucose into pyruvate, producing ATP in the absence of oxygen. This process is anaerobic and does not require sunlight, making it suitable for early Earth conditions.
Evaluate photosynthesis: Photosynthesis requires sunlight and evolved later in Earth's history. Early organisms likely did not rely on this process for ATP production.
Consider fermentation using sunlight: Fermentation is an anaerobic process, but it does not involve sunlight. The mention of sunlight in this option is misleading, as fermentation typically occurs in the absence of light.