Question

The cell wall of diatoms composed of __________

(a) Biogenic alumina

(b) Biogenic ammonia

(c) Biogenic silica

(d) Biogenic magnesia

This question was addressed to me by my college professor while I was bunking the class.

This question is from Extracellular Matrix and Cell Interactions topic in chapter Extracellular Matrix and Cell Interactions of Cell Biology

Answer 1

The correct option is (c) Biogenic silica

The explanation: The cell walls of marine diatoms have biogenic silica which is otherwise known as biogenic opal. This is found as small scales, granules or other geometric structures on the cell wall. This biogenic silica is a major contribution to the global carbon cycle.