Q28.3-4CC - Campbell Biology

Question

MAKE CONNECTIONS Review Figures 9.2 and 10.6, and then summarize how CO2 and O2 are both used and produced by chlorarachniophytes and other aerobic algae.

Step-by-Step Solution

Answer

The algae chlorarachniophytes and other groups of aerobic algae utilize CO2 for photosynthetic mechanism, and during this process, it produces molecular O₂ as a by-product of light reaction.

Aerobic algae generate energy through cellular respiration, and in this mechanism, it utilizes O₂ and produces CO₂.

Step 1: Algae

Algae are eukaryotic organisms belonging to the Kingdom of Protists. These organisms are of three types, namely, green algae, brown algae, and red algae. Among these, the red and green algae are phylogenetically closest to the green plants. Algae can photosynthesize like green plants.

Step 2: Photosynthesis

The cellular mechanism through which some organisms (plants and algae) independently prepare their food is denoted as photosynthesis. In this mechanism, energy from light is used along with water and inorganic carbon source (CO₂). 

The light-dependent reaction of photosynthesis generates O₂, and CO₂ is incorporated during the light-independent reactions (Calvin cycle).

Step 3: Aerobic cellular respiration

The aerobic algae use the biochemical mechanism of aerobic cellular respiration for generating ATP. In this process, the cells utilize molecules of O₂, and the molecules of CO₂ are generated as a by-product. 

The glycolysis process occurs in the cytoplasm and is common for both aerobic living beings and anaerobic living beings. There are a lot of energy molecules that are ATPs are produced to get the energy to the body.