Metabolism and Energy Transformation in Body Cells - Renata Armenakovna Petrosova 2004

Metabolism and Energy Transformation as a Fundamental Property of Living Organisms
Interconnection of Metabolic Pathways in Autotrophic and Heterotrophic Organisms

Through metabolic processes, autotrophic and heterotrophic organisms are interconnected in nature.

The most important groups of organisms in nature are autotrophs, which are capable of synthesizing organic substances from inorganic ones. The majority of autotrophs are green plants, which, through Photosynthesis, convert inorganic carbon—carbon dioxide—into complex Organic compounds. During photosynthesis, green plants release oxygen, which is essential for the Respiration of living organisms.

Heterotrophs assimilate only pre-formed organic substances, obtaining energy through their breakdown. Autotrophic and heterotrophic organisms are linked together by metabolic processes and Energy Flow. Photosynthesis is practically the sole process that supplies organisms with nutrients and oxygen.

Despite the immense scale of photosynthesis, Earth's green plants utilize only 1% of the solar energy incident on their leaves.

In recent years, particular attention has been drawn to the unicellular alga Chlorella, which contains up to 6% chlorophyll and possesses a remarkable ability to assimilate up to 20% of solar energy. Under artificial cultivation, Chlorella multiplies rapidly, and its protein content increases within the Cells. This protein is used as a dietary Supplement in many products. It has been established that up to 700 kg of dry Chlorella biomass can be obtained daily from 1 hectare of Water surface. Additionally, Chlorella synthesizes a large amount of Vitamins.

Scientists' great interest in Chlorella is also associated with space flight. Under artificial conditions, Chlorella can supply a spacecraft with the oxygen it releases during photosynthesis.

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Fig. 4. Biological nutrient cycle. The interconnection of organisms and metabolic processes



Last update: 13/08/2026

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