Multiple Choice
Which molecule typically serves as the final electron acceptor during anaerobic respiration, specifically in fermentation?
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33. The Organic Chemistry of Metabolic Pathways
Anaerobic Respiration
Multiple Choice
Which of the following best explains why the first organisms on Earth were anaerobic?
A
The early Earth had a high concentration of in the atmosphere.
B
Anaerobic organisms can survive in high temperatures.
C
The early Earth had a low concentration of in the atmosphere.
D
Anaerobic respiration is more efficient than aerobic respiration.
Verified step by step guidance1
Understand the concept of anaerobic organisms: Anaerobic organisms are those that do not require oxygen for growth and can even be poisoned by oxygen.
Consider the conditions of early Earth: The early Earth had a very different atmosphere compared to today, with a low concentration of oxygen.
Relate the atmospheric conditions to the survival of organisms: Since the early Earth had a low concentration of oxygen, organisms that could survive without oxygen, i.e., anaerobic organisms, were more likely to thrive.
Evaluate the efficiency of respiration types: Anaerobic respiration is less efficient than aerobic respiration in terms of energy production, but it allows survival in oxygen-poor environments.
Conclude why anaerobic organisms were the first: The low oxygen levels in the early Earth's atmosphere made it conducive for anaerobic organisms to be the first to evolve and survive.
