The Department of Energy is very interested in investigating which organisms compose the gut microbiome of cows, especially in the rumen. Why would the microbes within a cow's rumen be studied by scientists in the Department of Energy?
A)Scientists want to derive biofuels from cellulose.
B)Scientists want to derive biofuels from methane.
C)Scientists want to derive biofuels from the lactose in cow's milk.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The microbes in the cow's rumen are capable of breaking down and digesting cellulose, a complex carbohydrate found in plant material. The Department of Energy is interested in deriving biofuels from cellulosic materials, and therefore, studying the microorganisms in the cow's rumen may provide insight into new ways of converting cellulose into biofuels.

The Department of Energy Is Very Interested in Investigating Which