Question Details

Heterotrophic nutrition is

Options

A

utilization of energy obtained by plants

B

oxidation of glucose

C

breakdown of glucose into energy

D

All of the above

Correct Answer :

All of the above

Solution :

The correct option is All of the above.

To understand why all the given options are correct, let us analyze the concept of heterotrophic nutrition and the metabolic processes involved in it step-by-step:

1. Sourcing Energy (Utilization of energy obtained by plants):
Heterotrophs are organisms that cannot synthesize their own food through photosynthesis. Instead, they must obtain organic nutrients by consuming other organisms. Since plants (autotrophs) are the primary producers that capture solar energy and store it in chemical bonds, heterotrophs ultimately rely on the utilization of energy obtained by plants, either directly by eating plants or indirectly by eating other animals that feed on plants.

2. Digestion and Cellular Processing (Breakdown of glucose into energy):
Once food is ingested, the complex organic compounds are digested and broken down into simpler molecules, primarily glucose. The glucose is then transported into the cells, where it is further broken down through metabolic pathways (such as glycolysis) to release stored chemical energy.

3. Cellular Respiration (Oxidation of glucose):
To release the energy trapped within the chemical bonds of glucose, cells carry out cellular respiration. During aerobic respiration, glucose is oxidized in the presence of oxygen to produce carbon dioxide, water, and energy in the form of Adenosine Triphosphate (ATP). The general chemical equation representing this oxidation process is:

C6 H12 O6 + 6 O2 6 C O2 + 6 H2 O + Energy (ATP)

Conclusion:
Since heterotrophic nutrition encompasses the initial consumption and utilization of plant-made energy, the subsequent breakdown of glucose, and the final oxidation of glucose to release energy, all three statement options accurately describe aspects of heterotrophic nutrition. Therefore, "All of the above" is the correct choice.

Unlock Our Free Library

Access expert-curated educational resources and study materials—completely free.