Why do living organisms need nutrients?
To build tissue and carry out life functions
To recycle chemical compounds
To utilize hydrogen and oxygen
To carry out nitrogen fixation
To obtain energy for metabolic processes and sustain life
A.To build tissue and carry out life functions
B.To recycle chemical compounds
C.To utilize hydrogen and oxygen
D.To carry out nitrogen fixation
Answer: A and D are partially correct. Living organisms need nutrients to build tissue and carry out life functions, as well as to carry out nitrogen fixation which is important for the growth and development of plants. However, B and C are also correct as living organisms need nutrients to recycle chemical compounds and utilize hydrogen and oxygen for metabolic processes.
Living organisms need nutrients for several reasons:
1. To build tissue and carry out life functions: Nutrients, such as proteins, carbohydrates, and fats, are necessary for cell growth, repair, and maintenance. They provide the building blocks for forming new cells and tissues, including muscles, bones, organs, and skin. Nutrients also play a crucial role in the synthesis of enzymes and hormones, which regulate various biological processes.
2. To recycle chemical compounds: Nutrients are involved in the recycling of chemical compounds within an organism. For example, the nutrient nitrogen is essential for nitrogen fixation, a process in which certain bacteria convert atmospheric nitrogen into a usable form that plants can absorb and utilize for growth. This cyclic process allows for the continual reuse of nutrients in ecosystems.
3. To utilize hydrogen and oxygen: Hydrogen and oxygen are important nutrients necessary for energy production and cellular respiration. These elements are utilized in metabolic pathways, such as aerobic respiration, where glucose is broken down to produce ATP (adenosine triphosphate), the main source of energy for cells.
4. To carry out nitrogen fixation: Certain organisms, such as nitrogen-fixing bacteria, need nutrients to carry out nitrogen fixation. Nitrogen fixation is the process by which these bacteria convert atmospheric nitrogen into a form that can be used by other organisms, primarily plants. This process is crucial for maintaining the availability of nitrogen, an essential nutrient, in ecosystems.
In summary, nutrients are vital for living organisms as they provide the necessary building blocks for growth and repair, enable energy production, facilitate chemical recycling, and support crucial processes like nitrogen fixation.