Which statement is true for photosynthesis? Producers use it. Consumers use it. Scavengers use it. Decomposers use it.
The Correct Answer and Explanation is:
Correct Answer: Producers use it.
Explanation:
Photosynthesis is the process by which producers, such as plants, algae, and certain bacteria, convert light energy from the sun into chemical energy stored in glucose. This process occurs in the chloroplasts of plant cells and relies on the pigment chlorophyll, which captures sunlight. The overall chemical equation for photosynthesis is:
6CO₂ + 6H₂O + light energy → C₆H₁₂O₆ + 6O₂
This equation highlights that producers use carbon dioxide (CO₂) and water (H₂O) to produce glucose (C₆H₁₂O₆), which serves as an energy source, and oxygen (O₂), which is released as a byproduct.
Why Producers Use Photosynthesis:
Producers, also called autotrophs, are organisms that can create their own food. Photosynthesis is their primary method of synthesizing energy-rich organic compounds. The glucose produced is either used immediately for energy through cellular respiration or stored as starch for later use. This ability to produce food independently forms the foundation of the food chain.
Why Consumers, Scavengers, and Decomposers Do Not Use Photosynthesis:
- Consumers (e.g., animals) depend on producers or other consumers for energy. They cannot perform photosynthesis because they lack chlorophyll and the necessary cellular structures.
- Scavengers (e.g., vultures) consume dead organisms for energy. They rely on the nutrients already present in their food.
- Decomposers (e.g., fungi, bacteria) break down dead organic matter to obtain nutrients, releasing inorganic compounds back into the ecosystem. They do not use photosynthesis as they lack chloroplasts.
Importance in the Ecosystem:
Photosynthesis is vital because it introduces energy into ecosystems and produces oxygen, which is essential for most living organisms. Without producers performing photosynthesis, life on Earth would struggle to sustain itself, as consumers, scavengers, and decomposers all indirectly depend on the organic matter created by photosynthesis.