Biology: The Unity and Diversity of Life (14th Edition)

Published by Brooks/Cole Publishing Co.
ISBN 10: 1305073959
ISBN 13: 978-1-30507-395-1

Chapter 21 - Self-Quiz - Page 353: 5

Answer

b. oils

Work Step by Step

The layer of oil produced by diatoms helps them float on the surface of water because oil, being less dense than water, will float. Diatoms are photosynthetic; therefore, this layer of oil is essential because it helps them stay on the surface of water to reach sunlight for use during photosynthesis. This layer of oil is also used to store energy for the diatom.
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