Match the numbered terms to the description that follows. Choose all appropriate terms.
1)autotroph
2)heterotroph
3)phototroph
4)chemotroph
A prokaryote that obtains both energy and carbon as it decomposes dead organisms
A) 1 only
B) 4 only
C) 1 and 3
D) 2 and 4
E) 1, 3, and 4

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Heterotrophs obtain energy by consuming other organisms, while chemotrophs obtain energy from chemicals. The description matches a prokaryote that obtains both energy and carbon by decomposing dead organisms, which can be either a heterotroph or a chemotroph. Therefore, options 1 and 3, which are autotrophs and phototrophs respectively and obtain carbon from non-organic sources, are not appropriate choices. Option 4, which is a chemotroph, is the most appropriate choice, but as some heterotrophs can also be chemotrophs, option 2, which is heterotroph, should also be included. Therefore, the correct answer is D.

Match the Numbered Terms to the Description That Follows