Unit 3 Lesson 9: Chemosynthesis Flashcards
extremophile
organisms that live in extreme conditions such as minimal sunlight and high or low temperatures
Without sunlight available, these organisms rely on a process called
chemosynthesis
chemosynthesis
process that uses chemical energy instead of light energy by converting carbon or methane into organic matter using inorganic molecules such as hydrogen sulfide or methane as an energy source
How do bacteria use chemosynthesis
Bacteria use inorganic molecules such as hydrogen sulfide or methane that seep through the ocean floor through vents or small openings as an energy source that is then processed into sugar, sulfur, and water.
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The energy flow would not stop with bacteria why?
The energy flow would not stop with bacteria because many chemosynthetic microorganisms are consumed by other organisms in the ocean’s food chains.
Adaptaion of mussels
Mussels that have adapted to this environment can even provide shelter for other organisms such as snails and shrimp that continually feed on the bacteria that use chemosynthesis for energy.
There are some marine animals that have adapted have bacteria in their tissues, which use the methane or sulfur molecules to make energy for the animal. Waht are some examples of these animals
These animals are usually clams, mussels, or worms (such as tubeworms) and tend to be very specialized.
How is it possible for organisms in locations that do not receive energy from the sun to have energy in their ecosystem?
These organisms use chemical energy instead of light energy when there is not energy from the sun.
Describe the process of chemosynthesis.
The process of chemosynthesis is usually performed by bacteria that convert carbon or methane into organic matter using inorganic molecules such as hydrogen sulfide or methane as an energy source.
How do organisms that are not bacteria rely on the process of chemosynthesis?
These organisms are usually specialized and have bacteria that undergo chemosynthesis in their tissues. They rely on this process to provide energy.
How does the process of chemosynthesis cycle matter and flow energy through ecosystems?
Matter and energy are passed from one organism to another when organisms are consumed.
1.
Describe the process of chemosynthesis.
Chemosynthesis uses the energy stored in the chemical bonds of hydrogen sulfide and methane from the environment to make glucose.
Organisms that live in places away from the reach of the sun’s energy obtain energy by a process known as chemosynthesis.
Select if the statement is true or false.
true
false
true; Organisms that live in the deep ocean or places where the energy of the sun is not available rely on a process known as chemosynthesis.
How do organisms that are more complex than bacteria receive energy from chemosynthesis?
These animals rely on bacteria inside of them to undergo chemosynthesis and then they will use this energy.
Describe how chemosynthesis drives the cycling of energy.
Energy produced during chemosynthesis flows through the food web and then returns to the environment.
Extremophiles are classified by the environmental conditions in which they grow and thrive: acidophile
an organism that grows best at acidic (low) pH values
Extremophiles are classified by the environmental conditions in which they grow and thrive: alkaliphile
an organism that grows best at high pH values
Extremophiles are classified by the environmental conditions in which they grow and thrive: anaerobe
an organism that can grow without oxygen present
Extremophiles are classified by the environmental conditions in which they grow and thrive:endolith
an organism that lives inside rock or in the pores between mineral grains
Extremophiles are classified by the environmental conditions in which they grow and thrive: halophile
an organism requiring high amounts of salt for growth
Extremophiles are classified by the environmental conditions in which they grow and thrive: methanogen
an organism that produces methane from the reaction of hydrogen and carbon dioxide
Extremophiles have the ability to create
enzymes
What is the importance of enzymes
enzymes, or chemicals that help with chemical reactions, in these extreme and harsh conditions. Enzymes are substances produced by living organisms that act as a catalyst to bring about a specific chemical reactions in the body, such as digestion.
What are enzymes from alkaliphiles used for
Enzymes from some alkaliphiles are used for making laundry and dishwashing detergents. They are also used for removing hair from animal hides. Another alkaliphile is used in making paper and treating waste because it produces a protein that breaks down hydrogen peroxide.
How are extremophiles beneficial in our lives?
The enzymes that are produced by extremophiles are used in our laundry and dishwashing detergents. They are also used in making paper and breaking down hydrogen peroxide. They are studied for genetically based medicines, industrial chemicals, and processes.
Some extremophiles known as psychrophiles live in extremely low temperatures such as Antarctica. Often these organisms create antifreeze proteins. How would this help these extremophiles?
If the temperature is below freezing, this protein will help to ensure that the water in the organism does not freeze.
Bacteriorhodopsin is a protein used by some extremophiles in Archaea (a type of single-celled organism) and captures light energy to convert into chemical energy. Bacteriorhodopsin uses this energy to move protons across the cell membrane generating ATP. How would chemosynthesis help Bacteriorhodopsin survive?
Chemosynthesis does not depend on chlorophyll, and these organisms do not need the other inputs that are needed for photosynthesis. This is helpful for organisms that live in extreme conditions and there may not be carbon dioxide, water, or sunlight present.
