[Campbell Biology P.635] According to the text, which of the following is NOT a primary role... | Practice Question

According to the text, which of the following is NOT a primary role of prokaryotes in chemical recycling?

  • A: Functioning as decomposers to break down dead organisms and waste products.
  • B: Converting atmospheric N2 into forms usable by other organisms for building blocks.
  • C: Producing atmospheric O2 through photosynthesis by cyanobacteria.
  • D: Actively synthesizing complex organic molecules from simple inorganic precursors for primary consumption.

Explanation

The text states that prokaryotes function as decomposers A , fix atmospheric nitrogen B , and cyanobacteria produce O2 C . While autotrophic prokaryotes use CO2 to make organic compounds, the focus in the chemical recycling section is on how they make these forms usable by other organisms or manage nutrient availability, rather than their active synthesis for primary consumption as their primary recycling role. Option D is the least accurate description of a primary role in chemical recycling as discussed in this specific section.