In the context of cellular respiration, what percentage of energy from the original glucose molecule is typically available to consumers when they eat plant material?

• A. 100%
• B. 90%
• C. 50%
• D. 10%

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand that cellular respiration is the process by which cells convert glucose into usable energy in the form of ATP.
2. Recognize that during cellular respiration, energy is lost at each step of the process, primarily as heat.
3. Consider the energy transfer efficiency in ecosystems, where typically only about 10% of the energy from one trophic level is transferred to the next.
4. Realize that when consumers eat plant material, they are accessing the energy stored in the plant's biomass, which has already undergone cellular respiration.
5. Conclude that due to the energy loss in cellular respiration and trophic transfer, only about 10% of the original energy from the glucose molecule is available to consumers.