What are outside raw materials used for by an organism?

One of the most critical raw materials for many organisms, oxygen is used primarily for respiration. During Cellular respirationCellular respiration is a biochemical process where cells convert nutrients into energy. It involves breaking down glucose, usually derived from food, in the presence of oxygen to produce adenosine triphosphate (ATP), the energy currency of the cell. This process also releases carbon dioxide and water as byproducts., oxygen is used to break down food substances, releasing energy that is vital for various cellular activities.

Water: Water is a fundamental component for life. It is used in various physiological processes, including digestion, excretion, transportation of nutrients, and regulation of body temperature. Water also serves as a solvent in which various biochemical reactions occur.

Nutrients: This includes a range of substances such as CarbohydratesCarbohydrates are organic compounds made of carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen, serving as a major energy source for the body. They are classified into simple sugars like glucose and fructose, and complex carbohydrates like starch and fiber. Found in foods such as grains, fruits, and vegetables, they are vital for healthy functioning., proteins, fats, vitamins, and minerals. These nutrients are essential for energy production, growth, repair of tissues, and regulation of bodily functions. Carbohydrates, proteins, and fats are used as sources of energy, while vitamins and minerals play crucial roles in supporting various metabolic activities.

For autotrophic organisms like plants, carbon dioxide is a key raw material used in photosynthesis. Through photosynthesis, plants convert carbon dioxide and water into glucose (a form of sugar) and oxygen, using sunlight as an energy source.

Nitrogen is a vital component of amino acids, which are the building blocks of proteins. It is also a part of nucleic acids, which make up the genetic material of living organisms. While nitrogen is abundant in the atmosphere, most organisms cannot use it in its gaseous form. Nitrogen fixationNitrogen fixation is a process where nitrogen gas (N₂) from the atmosphere is converted into ammonia (NH₃) or related compounds in soil. This conversion, essential for plant growth, is primarily carried out by certain bacteria and archaea, either free-living or in symbiotic relationships with plants, like legumes. by certain bacteria is essential to convert it into a form that can be assimilated by plants.

Sunlight: For photosynthetic organisms, sunlight is an essential raw material. It provides the energy required for photosynthesis, the process by which light energy is converted into chemical energy stored in glucose.

Other Minerals: Various minerals like phosphorus, potassium, calcium, magnesium, and sulfur are also necessary for different biological functions. For example, calcium is crucial for bone and teeth formation, and phosphorus is a part of ATP (Adenosine triphosphateAdenosine triphosphate (ATP) is a complex organic chemical that provides energy to drive many processes in living cells, such as muscle contraction, nerve impulse propagation, and chemical synthesis. Found in all forms of life, ATP is often referred to as the “molecular unit of currency” of intracellular energy transfer.), the energy currency of the cell.

These raw materials are obtained from the environment and are processed within the organism’s body to sustain life processes. The specific requirements and uses of these materials can vary significantly among different organisms.

Discuss this question in detail or visit to Class 10 Science Chapter 5 for all questions.
List of Questions of Class 10 Science Chapter 5