Scientists investigating hydrothermal vents at the ocean floor find thriving chemoautotrophic bacteria despite the absence of sunlight and extreme conditions. Which of the following processes is MOST responsible for sustaining microbial life in this aphotic environment?

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Answer

Oxidation of hydrogen sulfide (H₂S) from vent emissions to generate energy

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Direct uptake of dissolved oxygen to support respiration

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Fermentation of organic material from dead marine organisms

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Anaerobic photosynthesis using deep-sea infrared radiation

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Scientists investigating hydrothermal vents at the ocean floor find thriving che...

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