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Multiple Choice
Why are pigments such as chlorophyll needed for photosynthesis?
A
They absorb light energy required to drive the reactions of photosynthesis.
B
They provide structural support to the chloroplasts.
C
They act as enzymes that catalyze the synthesis of glucose.
D
They store the glucose produced during photosynthesis.
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the role of pigments in photosynthesis: Pigments, such as chlorophyll, are molecules that absorb specific wavelengths of light. This absorbed light energy is crucial for driving the chemical reactions involved in photosynthesis.
Identify the primary function of chlorophyll: Chlorophyll absorbs light energy, particularly in the blue and red wavelengths, and converts it into chemical energy during the light-dependent reactions of photosynthesis.
Clarify why structural support is not the correct answer: Pigments like chlorophyll do not provide structural support to chloroplasts. Structural support is provided by other components, such as the chloroplast membrane and cytoskeleton.
Explain why pigments are not enzymes: Chlorophyll and other pigments are not enzymes; they do not catalyze the synthesis of glucose. Instead, they play a role in capturing light energy, which is then used in subsequent reactions to produce glucose.
Discuss why pigments do not store glucose: Pigments like chlorophyll do not store glucose. Glucose is stored in plants as starch or other carbohydrates, and pigments are involved only in the initial energy capture phase of photosynthesis.