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Elysia chlorotica is a bright green sea slug, with a soft leaf-shaped body - VCE - SSCE Biology - Question 3 - 2010 - Paper 1
Question 3
Elysia chlorotica is a bright green sea slug, with a soft leaf-shaped body. It has a life span of 9 to 10 months. This sea slug is unique among sea slugs as it is ab... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Elysia chlorotica is a bright green sea slug, with a soft leaf-shaped body - VCE - SSCE Biology - Question 3 - 2010 - Paper 1
Step 1
What is the product of photosynthesis that provides the energy that enables E. chlorotica to survive for so long without eating?
Answer
The primary product of photosynthesis that provides energy is glucose (C6H12O6). This organic compound acts as a vital energy source, allowing E. chlorotica to continuously synthesize energy without needing to feed after consuming algae.
Step 2
Name and give a brief description of each of these stages.
Answer
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Glycolysis: This is the first stage where glucose is converted into pyruvate, resulting in the production of 2 ATP molecules.
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Krebs Cycle: The pyruvate derived from glycolysis enters the Krebs cycle, where it is further converted to carbon dioxide, generating another 2 ATP.
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Electron Transport Chain: In this final stage, the hydrogen from the Krebs cycle combines with oxygen to produce water, yielding a significant amount of energy, typically around 32-34 ATP.
Step 3
Explain how having chloroplasts allows E. chlorotica to overcome this disadvantage.
Answer
Having chloroplasts allows E. chlorotica to perform photosynthesis, even in environments with low concentrations of dissolved gases. These organelles capture light energy to convert carbon dioxide and water into glucose and oxygen, ensuring the slug can sustain itself by using solar power to generate energy, reducing reliance on external food sources.