Certified Dietary Manager (CDM) Practice Exam

Which of the following statements is true about aerobic microorganisms?

1. They can grow without oxygen

2. They require oxygen to survive

3. They are harmful in all environments

4. They thrive in dry conditions

The correct answer is: They require oxygen to survive

The statement that aerobic microorganisms require oxygen to survive is accurate because aerobic microorganisms are characterized by their dependence on oxygen for their metabolic processes. These organisms utilize oxygen to generate energy through cellular respiration, which is vital for their growth and reproduction. In aerobic respiration, oxygen acts as the final electron acceptor in the electron transport chain, allowing for the efficient production of ATP, the energy currency of cells. While there are many types of microorganisms, aerobic microorganisms specifically thrive in environments where oxygen is present, which supports their metabolic needs. Other microorganisms, such as anaerobes, can grow without oxygen and may even find it toxic, which highlights the distinction between different types of microorganisms concerning their oxygen requirements.