CO2 Fixation

[MedPR]

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EK Bio 3 Page 58 says "CO2 is a unique inorganic carbon source because it has no hydrogens. To some degree, all microorganisms are capable of fixing CO2 (reducing it and using the carbon to create organic molecules usually through the Calvin Cycle."

It then goes on to say that "All organisms acquire energy from one of two sources: light or oxidation of organic or inorganic matter."

What about the reduction of inorganic CO2?

 

[MT Headed]

CH4 : Most reduced
H3COH
H2C=O
HCOOH
CO2 : Most oxidized

Walking this list in the oxidation direction releases energy.
Walking this list in the reduction direction stores energy.

So "the reduction of inorganic CO2" is not a method to "acquire energy". It is a handy source of carbons though!

 

[MedPR]

CH4 : Most reduced
H3COH
H2C=O
HCOOH
CO2 : Most oxidized

Walking this list in the oxidation direction releases energy.
Walking this list in the reduction direction stores energy.

So "the reduction of inorganic CO2" is not a method to "acquire energy". It is a handy source of carbons though!

Thanks!