MCQ Detailed View

Bacteria are microscopic organisms that play a crucial role in maintaining life on Earth. They are found in soil, water, air, and even inside living organisms. Many bacteria are beneficial and carry out processes that support ecosystems, agriculture, and human health. However, some functions often mistakenly attributed to bacteria are actually performed by other organisms.

One major benefit of bacteria is their role in decomposition. Decomposer bacteria break down dead plants, animals, and organic waste into simpler substances. This process recycles nutrients back into the soil, enriching it and making them available for new plant growth. Without decomposer bacteria, ecosystems would become overloaded with organic waste.

Another important role of bacteria is nitrogen fixation. Certain bacteria, such as Rhizobium, live in the root nodules of leguminous plants like peas and beans. They convert atmospheric nitrogen into forms that plants can absorb and use for growth. This natural fertilization process reduces the need for chemical fertilizers and is essential for the nitrogen cycle.

However, oxygen production is not a benefit of bacteria. The majority of Earth’s oxygen is produced by plants and algae through the process of photosynthesis, not by bacteria. Although cyanobacteria (blue-green algae) can perform photosynthesis and release some oxygen, they are an exception and not the primary source of oxygen on the planet. Most bacteria do not contribute to oxygen generation.

Therefore, among the given options, the process that is not typically a benefit of bacteria is oxygen production.

In summary:

• 
  

  Decomposition → Benefit of bacteria

  
  


• 
  

  Nitrogen fixation → Benefit of bacteria

  
  


• 
  

  Oxygen production → Mainly done by plants and algae, not bacteria

  
  

Thus, the correct answer is Oxygen Production.