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Multiple Choice
Which class of organisms gather their energy directly from the sun?
A
Heterotrophs
B
Detritivores
C
Chemoautotrophs
D
Photoautotrophs
Verified step by step guidance
1
Step 1: Understand the concept of energy acquisition in organisms. Organisms can be classified based on how they obtain energy: autotrophs produce their own energy, while heterotrophs consume other organisms for energy.
Step 2: Define photoautotrophs. Photoautotrophs are organisms that use sunlight as their primary energy source to synthesize organic compounds through the process of photosynthesis.
Step 3: Compare photoautotrophs with other classes mentioned in the problem. Heterotrophs rely on consuming other organisms, detritivores feed on decomposing organic matter, and chemoautotrophs obtain energy from chemical reactions rather than sunlight.
Step 4: Recall the process of photosynthesis. Photoautotrophs, such as plants, algae, and cyanobacteria, use sunlight, carbon dioxide, and water to produce glucose and oxygen. The chemical equation for photosynthesis is:
Step 5: Conclude that photoautotrophs are the correct answer because they gather their energy directly from the sun through photosynthesis, unlike the other classes of organisms listed.