Question

Select the wrong statement -

• A. The walls of diatoms are easily destructible
• B. Diatomaceous earth' is formed by the cell walls of diatoms
• C. Diatoms are chief producers in the oceans
• D. Diatoms are microscopic and float passively in water

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

To identify the wrong statement among the given options, we need to understand some key facts about diatoms. Let’s analyze each statement:

1. The walls of diatoms are easily destructible.
   This statement is incorrect. Diatoms have walls made of silica, known as frustules. These silica walls are very robust and not easily destructible. They contribute significantly to the formation of 'diatomaceous earth' when diatoms accumulate over millions of years.
2. 'Diatomaceous earth' is formed by the cell walls of diatoms.
   This statement is correct. When diatoms die, their silica-rich cell walls settle at the ocean floor and become 'diatomaceous earth' over geological time. This earth is used in various industries for filtration, as a mild abrasive, and in other applications.
3. Diatoms are chief producers in the oceans.
   This is a correct statement. Diatoms are one of the most important groups of microalgae and are crucial to the marine food web. They perform photosynthesis, which contributes substantially to the ocean's primary productivity and oxygen production.
4. Diatoms are microscopic and float passively in water.
   This statement is true. Diatoms are microscopic and are often found floating in water, which makes them part of the plankton community. They rely on water currents for movement.

Based on the above evaluation, the incorrect statement is that "The walls of diatoms are easily destructible." Thus, the correct answer is the first option.