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I don’t quite agree with the solution. it is wrong

Thank you for the comment. I checked the solution and I saw it had only the correct answer explanation, so I have added the other answer choice explanations.
Thanks for the heads up.
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Hi

Im not sure if i can understand - isnt the first paragraph mention that "photosynthesis also occurs beneath the oceans' surface, within microscopic organisms known as phytoplankton" - cant this mean the phytoplankton is part of the details of photosynthesis as A suggested?

Im not sure why in C - where the highlight the significance of phytoplankton in global climate is - isnt the last paragraph on that environmental factors can affect phytoplankton?

Can you explain?

Thanks!
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Official Solution:


The process of photosynthesis, commonly associated with plants, is a fundamental mechanism by which light energy from the sun is transformed into chemical energy in the form of glucose and other sugars. While most associate this process with terrestrial plants, photosynthesis also occurs beneath the oceans' surface, within microscopic organisms known as phytoplankton.

Phytoplankton, much like terrestrial plants, possess chlorophyll, a pigment vital for photosynthesis and multiplication. Though they are minute, their vast numbers mean they play a crucial role in marine ecosystems by forming the base of the food chain. Furthermore, these microscopic plants have a profound impact on global carbon cycling. They absorb vast amounts of carbon dioxide, a greenhouse gas, during photosynthesis, which helps regulate Earth's climate.

However, the health and distribution of phytoplankton populations are sensitive to environmental changes. Factors such as water temperature, nutrient availability, and light intensity can significantly influence phytoplankton growth rates and, consequently, the health of marine ecosystems. Chlorophyll levels within phytoplankton also play a role, as they directly impact the efficiency of photosynthesis. As the planet undergoes climatic shifts, understanding the role and adaptability of phytoplankton becomes ever more crucial.

The primary purpose of the passage is to:

A. Discuss the differences between terrestrial plants and phytoplankton.
B. Explain the process of photosynthesis in detail.
C. Highlight the significance of phytoplankton in marine ecosystems and global climate.
D. Discuss the impact of environmental factors on plant growth.
E. Describe the food chain in marine ecosystems.


(A) Incorrect - too narrow. The passage briefly states that photosynthesis is “commonly associated with terrestrial plants” but also occurs in phytoplankton, but the passage does not focus on comparing them in detail

(B) Incorrect - The passage does not go into the specific biochemical steps or mechanisms of photosynthesis. Hence, not the main purpose of the passage.

(C) CORRECT ANSWER The passage addresses phytoplankton’s role as the base of the marine food chain in quite a bit of detail as well as plankton's impact on carbon dioxide absorption and climate regulation. This is the main purpose of the passage.

(D) Incorrect. Too broad. The passage is more focused on the phytoplankton not all plants.

(E) Incorrect. Too narrow/irrelevant. The passage does not go into a detailed description of the entire marine food chain.


Answer: C
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