Which of the following statements is a correct distinction between autotrophs and heterotrophs?

Correct answer: D. Autotrophs, but not heterotrophs, can nourish themselves beginning with entirely inorganic nutrients

  • A. Only heterotrophs require chemical compounds from the environment
  • B. Cellular respiration is unique to heterotrophs
  • C. Only heterotrophs have mitochondria
  • D. Autotrophs, but not heterotrophs, can nourish themselves beginning with entirely inorganic nutrients

Explanation

Autotrophs, but not heterotrophs, can nourish themselves beginning with CO2 and other inorganic nutrients. Heterotrophs depend on autotrophs either directly or indirectly. OPTION A: Autotroph needs chemical compounds from the environment. OPTION B: Cellular respiration is present in both heterotrophy and autotrophy, as both of them require energy in the form of ATP, which is formed by cellular respiration. OPTION C: Both have mitochondria in their cells, which generate energy for cells and work as the powerhouses of the cell. OPTION D: Autotrophs, but not heterotrophs, can nourish themselves beginning with CO2 and other inorganic nutrients.

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