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Q 1. Define nutrition, nutrients, macronutrients, micronutrients, essential nutrients. Q 2. List the essential nutrients of a bacterial cell. Q 3. Define heterotroph, autotroph, phototroph, chemotroph

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Answer:

Step-by-step explanation:

Q1. Definitions:

Nutrition; Nutrition refers to the process of obtaining and utilizing food for growth, metabolism, and overall health. It involves the ingestion, digestion, absorption, and assimilation of nutrients by an organism.

Nutrients: Nutrients are substances that provide nourishment and are essential for the growth, maintenance, and functioning of an organism. They can be obtained from food and are necessary for energy production, metabolism, and various physiological processes.

Macronutrients: Macronutrients are the nutrients required in large amounts by organisms. They include carbohydrates, proteins, and fats, which provide energy and are vital for the body's structure and functions.

Micronutrients: Micronutrients are nutrients needed in smaller quantities but are equally important for proper functioning of the body. They include vitamins and minerals, which play crucial roles in various biochemical reactions, immune function, and overall health.

Essential Nutrients: Essential nutrients are nutrients that the body cannot produce in sufficient amounts or cannot synthesize at all. They must be obtained through diet as the body relies on them for normal growth, development, and maintenance of health.

Q2. Essential Nutrients of a Bacterial Cell:

Essential nutrients for bacterial cells include:

Carbon source: Bacterial cells require a source of carbon for energy and building cellular structures. Common carbon sources are sugars, organic compounds, or carbon dioxide for autotrophic bacteria.

Nitrogen source: Nitrogen is necessary for the synthesis of proteins, nucleic acids, and other cellular components. Bacteria can utilize various nitrogen sources, such as ammonia, nitrate, or organic nitrogen compounds.

Phosphorus source: Phosphorus is crucial for DNA, RNA, and ATP synthesis in bacterial cells. Phosphate is the primary source of phosphorus for bacteria.

Minerals: Bacterial cells require minerals like magnesium, calcium, potassium, and trace elements such as iron, zinc, and copper as cofactors for enzymatic reactions and cellular functions.

Q3. Definitions:

Heterotroph: Heterotrophs are organisms that obtain organic compounds, including carbon and energy sources, from external sources. They cannot synthesize their own food and rely on consuming other organisms or organic matter for nutrition.

Autotroph: Autotrophs are organisms capable of synthesizing their own organic compounds using inorganic sources of carbon, such as carbon dioxide. They can convert light energy (phototrophs) or chemical energy (chemotrophs) into usable forms for metabolism.

Phototroph: Phototrophs are organisms that utilize light energy to synthesize organic compounds, such as through photosynthesis. They can convert light energy into chemical energy for their metabolic processes.

Chemotroph: Chemotrophs are organisms that obtain energy by oxidizing chemical compounds. They derive energy from chemical reactions, such as the breakdown of organic or inorganic substances, instead of relying on light energy.

Please note that the answers provided are based on general definitions and may vary in specific scientific contexts or organisms.

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