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Multiple Choice
Which type of organism is believed to have first evolved the ability to perform photosynthesis?
A
Fungi
B
Green algae
C
Protozoa
D
Cyanobacteria
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the process of photosynthesis: Photosynthesis is the process by which organisms convert light energy, usually from the sun, into chemical energy in the form of glucose. This process primarily occurs in plants, algae, and certain bacteria.
Identify the key components of photosynthesis: The main components required for photosynthesis are light energy, water, carbon dioxide, and chlorophyll, the green pigment found in chloroplasts.
Explore the evolutionary history of photosynthesis: Photosynthesis is believed to have first evolved in prokaryotic organisms, specifically in cyanobacteria, which are also known as blue-green algae.
Recognize the significance of cyanobacteria: Cyanobacteria are considered one of the earliest organisms to perform oxygenic photosynthesis, which releases oxygen as a byproduct, significantly impacting Earth's atmosphere and paving the way for the evolution of more complex life forms.
Differentiate between the options: Fungi and protozoa do not perform photosynthesis. Green algae are eukaryotic organisms that perform photosynthesis, but they evolved after cyanobacteria. Therefore, cyanobacteria are the correct answer as the first organisms to evolve the ability to perform photosynthesis.