Prokaryote Metabolism and Ecology exam Flashcards

An organism that produces its own carbon compounds from inorganic sources like CO₂.

An organism that obtains carbon compounds from other organisms.

An organism that uses light energy to produce ATP via photophosphorylation.

By oxidizing organic molecules and producing ATP via oxidative phosphorylation.

An organism that oxidizes inorganic molecules to generate energy.

The process by which prokaryotes convert atmospheric nitrogen (N₂) into usable forms like ammonium or nitrogen dioxide.

A prokaryote that must use oxygen for cellular respiration.

A prokaryote for which oxygen is toxic and does not use oxygen for cellular respiration.

An organism that can perform cellular respiration with or without oxygen.

Prokaryotes act as decomposers, breaking down organic matter and cycling carbon through the biosphere.

An organism that uses light energy to produce its own carbon compounds from inorganic sources.

An organism that oxidizes organic molecules to generate energy.

An organism that oxidizes inorganic molecules to produce its own carbon compounds.

Cyanobacteria are photosynthetic bacteria that produce oxygen and contributed to the atmospheric oxygen on Earth.

A metabolic process that regenerates electron carriers used in glycolysis, allowing for continued ATP production without oxygen.

Alcohol fermentation and lactic acid fermentation.

A biogeochemical cycle in which prokaryotes play a crucial role by performing nitrogen fixation.

Prokaryotes in the human gut aid in digestion and can influence the brain and overall health.

Prokaryotes are essential for nutrient cycling, including the nitrogen and carbon cycles, and contribute to oxygen production.

Chemoorganotrophs use organic molecules for energy, while chemolithotrophs use inorganic molecules.

Prokaryotes decompose organic matter, facilitating the recycling of carbon in ecosystems.