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Multiple Choice
What does the endosymbiotic theory propose that mitochondria in eukaryotic cells arose from?
A
Free-living aerobic bacteria
B
Photosynthetic cyanobacteria
C
Anaerobic archaea
D
Primitive eukaryotic cells
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the endosymbiotic theory: This theory suggests that certain organelles in eukaryotic cells, such as mitochondria and chloroplasts, originated from free-living bacteria that were engulfed by ancestral eukaryotic cells.
Identify the characteristics of mitochondria: Mitochondria are known for their role in aerobic respiration, which is the process of producing energy in the presence of oxygen.
Consider the type of bacteria that would be capable of aerobic respiration: Free-living aerobic bacteria are capable of using oxygen to produce energy, similar to the function of mitochondria.
Evaluate the options given: Photosynthetic cyanobacteria are known for photosynthesis, not aerobic respiration. Anaerobic archaea thrive in environments without oxygen, which does not align with the function of mitochondria. Primitive eukaryotic cells are not bacteria and do not fit the theory's proposal.
Conclude that the most likely origin of mitochondria according to the endosymbiotic theory is free-living aerobic bacteria, as they share the ability to perform aerobic respiration.