Do autotrophs need to carry out cellular respiration, and if so, why?

• A. No, because they obtain energy directly from sunlight.
• B. Yes, because they rely on external sources of glucose.
• C. No, because they produce their own energy through photosynthesis.
• D. Yes, because they need to convert glucose into usable energy.

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the role of autotrophs: Autotrophs are organisms that can produce their own food using light, water, carbon dioxide, or other chemicals. They are primarily known for photosynthesis, where they convert sunlight into chemical energy stored in glucose.
2. Clarify the process of photosynthesis: During photosynthesis, autotrophs convert light energy into chemical energy in the form of glucose. This glucose serves as a source of energy and carbon skeletons for building other organic molecules.
3. Explain the necessity of cellular respiration: Cellular respiration is a process that converts the chemical energy stored in glucose into adenosine triphosphate (ATP), the energy currency of the cell. Even autotrophs need ATP to power cellular activities.
4. Discuss the relationship between photosynthesis and cellular respiration: While photosynthesis produces glucose, cellular respiration is necessary to break down glucose and release energy in a form that cells can use (ATP). This is why autotrophs need to carry out cellular respiration.
5. Conclude with the importance of cellular respiration for autotrophs: Autotrophs, like all living organisms, require energy to perform various cellular functions. Cellular respiration is essential for converting glucose into ATP, which is used for growth, reproduction, and other vital processes.