The correct choice highlights the fact that both biological and non-biological substances have specific roles concerning oxygen, although the nature of their interaction with oxygen differs significantly.
Biological substances, such as living organisms and their cells, typically require oxygen for cellular respiration, a metabolic process that converts nutrients into energy. This process is essential for growth, reproduction, and overall cellular functioning. In aerobic organisms, oxygen serves as a crucial element in generating ATP (adenosine triphosphate), the energy currency of cells.
On the other hand, non-biological substances, such as chemical compounds or materials, may interact with oxygen in various ways, such as in oxidation-reduction reactions or through combustion processes. These reactions are crucial in industrial applications, energy production, and even in environmental contexts, like the degradation of organic materials.
Thus, recognizing that both biological and non-biological substances can interact with oxygen is vital in understanding metabolic processes and chemical reactions in various fields of study, including biology, chemistry, and environmental science.