A biologist trying to determine the mechanism of adenosine triphosphate ATP) production in a newly discovered bacterium provides several different substrates on which the bacteria can feed. Which of the following results would indicate that the species uses fermentation to produce ATP?
A) The bacteria utilize glucose and produce carbon dioxide as a by- product of respiration.
B) The biologist discovers that the bacteria are able to produce organic molecules by metabolizing methane.
C) After exposure to amino acids, the bacteria produce a smell like rotting flesh.
D) After the bacteria break down their substrate, the biologist notices a rotten egg smell.
E) The bacteria can only produce ATP in the presence of light.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Fermentation can result in the production of foul-smelling compounds, such as those reminiscent of rotting flesh, due to the breakdown of amino acids in an anaerobic (oxygen-free) environment. This indicates that the bacteria are using fermentation to produce ATP.

A Biologist Trying to Determine the Mechanism of Adenosine Triphosphate