In order to assemble complex structures from simpler subunits and to maintain a state of non-equilibrium, living organisms need a constant supply of _.
A oxygen
B energy
C amino acids
D entropy
The correct answer and explanation is:
The correct answer is B energy.
Living organisms must maintain a state of non-equilibrium to function effectively. This is because the cells and systems within an organism are constantly undergoing dynamic processes that require energy. Energy allows for the assembly of complex molecules from simpler subunits and supports processes like metabolism, movement, growth, and repair. Without a continuous supply of energy, organisms would not be able to build the structures necessary for life or maintain the intricate internal systems that keep them functioning.
In biological systems, energy is primarily derived from ATP (adenosine triphosphate), which is produced through processes like cellular respiration. Cellular respiration occurs in the mitochondria of eukaryotic cells, where glucose and oxygen are converted into ATP, releasing carbon dioxide and water as byproducts. The energy stored in ATP molecules is used to drive essential cellular processes such as protein synthesis, active transport of molecules across membranes, and muscle contraction.
Oxygen (A) is crucial for aerobic respiration but not directly responsible for maintaining non-equilibrium. It is a reactant in the process of cellular respiration that helps generate energy, but it does not directly provide the energy needed to assemble complex structures.
Amino acids (C) are essential building blocks of proteins but are not sufficient on their own to maintain non-equilibrium. While they are necessary for constructing the molecular machinery of the cell, they still require energy to be synthesized and to form the complex structures of life.
Entropy (D) refers to disorder or randomness in a system, and living organisms work actively to decrease entropy within their bodies by consuming energy. In fact, energy is used to counteract entropy, making it a key factor in maintaining a state of non-equilibrium in living systems.