Join thousands of students who trust us to help them ace their exams!Watch the first video
Multiple Choice
Which type of organism has the ability to produce organic compounds from inorganic substances?
A
Saprotroph
B
Heterotroph
C
Autotroph
D
Parasite
Verified step by step guidance
1
Step 1: Understand the key terms in the question. 'Organic compounds' refer to molecules containing carbon, typically associated with life processes, such as glucose (C₆H₁₂O₆). 'Inorganic substances' are simpler molecules like carbon dioxide (CO₂) and water (H₂O).
Step 2: Recognize the role of autotrophs. Autotrophs are organisms capable of synthesizing their own organic compounds from inorganic substances, typically through processes like photosynthesis or chemosynthesis. For example, plants use sunlight, CO₂, and H₂O to produce glucose and oxygen.
Step 3: Differentiate autotrophs from other types of organisms listed in the question. Heterotrophs rely on consuming organic compounds produced by other organisms. Saprotrophs decompose organic matter, and parasites depend on a host for nutrients.
Step 4: Recall the process of photosynthesis, a common method used by autotrophs. The general equation for photosynthesis is: . This demonstrates how autotrophs convert inorganic substances into organic compounds.
Step 5: Conclude that autotrophs are the correct answer because they are the only organisms listed that can produce organic compounds from inorganic substances without relying on other organisms.