Question

Some prokaryotes can live by utilizing entirely inorganic materials. Which of the following inorganic molecules would you predict to be the predominant building block

for fats, sugars, and proteins?
(a) O2
(b) N2
(c) CO2
(d) H2

Answer 1

Carbon dioxide (CO2) is the predominant inorganic building block for fats, sugars, and proteins in prokaryotes because autotrophic prokaryotes can fix CO2 into organic carbon compounds which are necessary for the synthesis of these macromolecules.The correct answer is option C.

Step-by-step explanation:

The student is asking about the predominant inorganic building block for fats, sugars, and proteins in prokaryotes utilizing entirely inorganic materials. Among the options given, carbon dioxide (CO2) would be the correct answer. This is because prokaryotes, specifically autotrophic prokaryotes, can perform carbon fixation where they convert inorganic carbon from CO2 into organic carbon compounds, which form the basis for fats, sugars, and proteins.

Prokaryotes that are chemolithoautotrophs use inorganic compounds for energy and build their complex organic molecules from CO2. They play vital roles in the carbon cycle by capturing CO2 from the atmosphere and converting it into organic compounds essential for the metabolism and survival of other life forms.The correct answer is option C.