[Campbell Biology P.237] Researchers are proposing to place containers of photosynthetic alg... | Practice Question

Researchers are proposing to place containers of photosynthetic algae near industrial plants and highly congested city streets to produce 'biodiesel'. Based on the principles of photosynthesis described in the text, why does this arrangement make sense?

  • A: Photosynthetic algae can utilize the carbon dioxide emitted by industrial activities and vehicle exhaust as a raw material, thereby mitigating air pollution and producing a renewable fuel.
  • B: The heat generated by industrial plants creates an optimal temperature for algae growth, leading to faster biodiesel production.
  • C: Algae can absorb and neutralize other hazardous pollutants besides CO2, making the industrial areas safer.
  • D: Industrial waste materials can serve as a direct nutrient source for algae, reducing the need for external fertilizers.

Explanation

The passage explains that photoautotrophs like algae use light energy to synthesize organic substances from CO2 and other inorganic raw materials. Industrial plants and city streets are major sources of CO2 emissions from burning fossil fuels. By placing algae containers near these locations, the algae can utilize the emitted CO2 as a raw material for photosynthesis, converting it into organic compounds for biodiesel and oxygen. This simultaneously addresses fossil fuel depletion by producing a renewable fuel and mitigates greenhouse gas emissions, making it an environmentally sound solution.