QuestionJune 27, 2025

What is the endosymbiotic theory, and what are two pieces of evidence that support it? square Daao 20 of 40

What is the endosymbiotic theory, and what are two pieces of evidence that support it? square Daao 20 of 40
What is the endosymbiotic theory, and what are two pieces of evidence that support it? square Daao 20 of 40

Solution
4.6(262 votes)

Answer

The endosymbiotic theory explains the origin of eukaryotic cells; evidence includes mitochondria and chloroplasts having their own DNA and double membranes. Explanation 1. Define Endosymbiotic Theory The endosymbiotic theory suggests that eukaryotic cells originated through a symbiotic relationship between early prokaryotic cells, where one cell engulfed another, leading to the development of organelles like mitochondria and chloroplasts. 2. Evidence 1 - Mitochondria and Chloroplasts Have Their Own DNA Mitochondria and chloroplasts contain their own circular DNA, similar to bacterial DNA, supporting the idea they were once independent prokaryotic organisms. 3. Evidence 2 - Double Membranes Both mitochondria and chloroplasts have double membranes, consistent with the engulfing mechanism proposed by the theory, where the inner membrane is from the engulfed prokaryote and the outer from the host cell.

Explanation

1. Define Endosymbiotic Theory<br /> The endosymbiotic theory suggests that eukaryotic cells originated through a symbiotic relationship between early prokaryotic cells, where one cell engulfed another, leading to the development of organelles like mitochondria and chloroplasts.<br /><br />2. Evidence 1 - Mitochondria and Chloroplasts Have Their Own DNA<br /> Mitochondria and chloroplasts contain their own circular DNA, similar to bacterial DNA, supporting the idea they were once independent prokaryotic organisms.<br /><br />3. Evidence 2 - Double Membranes<br /> Both mitochondria and chloroplasts have double membranes, consistent with the engulfing mechanism proposed by the theory, where the inner membrane is from the engulfed prokaryote and the outer from the host cell.
Click to rate:

Similar Questions