Organisms which obtain energy by the oxidation of reduced inorganic compounds are called

Options

A. saprozoic
B. chemoautotrophs
C. photoautotrophs
D. coproheterotrophs

Answer

To answer the question, "Organisms which obtain energy by the oxidation of reduced inorganic compounds are called," we can follow these steps:

### Step 1: Understand the Question
The question is asking for a specific type of organism that derives its energy from the oxidation of reduced inorganic compounds.

**Hint:** Focus on the key terms "oxidation," "reduced inorganic compounds," and "energy."

### Step 2: Analyze the Options
We need to evaluate the provided options to identify which one fits the description.

1. **Saprophytic (or Saprobic)**: These organisms feed on dead and decaying organic matter. They secrete enzymes to break down the organic material and absorb the nutrients. This option is incorrect because they do not obtain energy from inorganic compounds.

**Hint:** Consider what type of material saprophytic organisms consume.

2. **Chemoautotrophs**: These organisms synthesize their own food using chemical reactions, specifically by oxidizing inorganic compounds. This option fits the description as they obtain energy from the oxidation of reduced inorganic compounds.

**Hint:** Think about how organisms can produce their own food using chemicals rather than sunlight.

3. **Photoautotrophs**: These organisms use light energy to synthesize their food through photosynthesis. This option is incorrect because they rely on light rather than inorganic compounds for energy.

**Hint:** Recall the process of photosynthesis and its reliance on sunlight.

4. **Coproheterotrophs**: These organisms feed on dung or fecal matter. This option is also incorrect as it does not relate to the oxidation of inorganic compounds.

**Hint:** Consider the meaning of "copro" and how it relates to the diet of these organisms.

### Step 3: Identify the Correct Answer
From the analysis, the correct answer is **Chemoautotrophs**. They are the organisms that obtain energy by the oxidation of reduced inorganic compounds.

**Final Answer:** Chemoautotrophs