9. Two different species of bacteria are examined. Scientists find that species X always produces CO2 and H2O during cellular respiration. Species Y always produces ethyl alcohol and CO2. Which conclusion can be made from these observations? (SC.912.L.18.9)

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1 point
Only species Y is aerobic
Only species Y is anaerobic
Both species X and Y are aerobic
Both species X and Y are anaerobic

1 answer

From the observations, we can conclude that:

  • Species X produces CO2 and H2O, which indicates that it is undergoing aerobic respiration (as aerobic respiration produces both water and carbon dioxide).
  • Species Y produces ethyl alcohol and CO2, suggesting that it is undergoing fermentation, which is an anaerobic process since it does not use oxygen.

Based on this information, the correct conclusion is:

Only species Y is anaerobic.