Which domain of life is unicellular prokaryote that absorbs photosynthesis or chemo synthesizes food
The correct answer and explanation is:
Correct Answer:
The domain of life you are referring to is Bacteria (specifically cyanobacteria for photosynthesis) or Archaea (some of which are chemoautotrophs).
Explanation (300 words):
In the classification of life, organisms are grouped into three domains: Bacteria, Archaea, and Eukarya. Among these, Bacteria and Archaea consist of unicellular prokaryotes—cells without a nucleus or membrane-bound organelles.
The organisms you describe are unicellular prokaryotes capable of obtaining energy either through photosynthesis or chemosynthesis:
- Photosynthetic prokaryotes:
These are primarily found in the Bacteria domain, especially within the group called cyanobacteria (also known as blue-green algae). Cyanobacteria perform oxygenic photosynthesis, meaning they use sunlight to convert carbon dioxide and water into organic molecules (food) and release oxygen as a byproduct. Cyanobacteria were crucial in shaping Earth’s atmosphere by producing oxygen billions of years ago. They contain specialized pigments such as chlorophyll a, enabling them to capture light energy. - Chemosynthetic prokaryotes:
Both Bacteria and Archaea include species that perform chemosynthesis. Chemosynthesis is the process of synthesizing organic compounds using energy derived from the oxidation of inorganic molecules (such as hydrogen sulfide, ammonia, or methane) rather than sunlight. These organisms are called chemoautotrophs. Many Archaea, especially those living in extreme environments like hydrothermal vents or hot springs, use chemosynthesis to survive where sunlight cannot penetrate.
Thus, the domain of life for unicellular prokaryotes that absorb energy through photosynthesis or chemosynthesis is primarily Bacteria (cyanobacteria for photosynthesis) and Archaea (some chemoautotrophs). Both domains consist of prokaryotes, but their metabolic strategies differ depending on the environmental niche.