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Multiple Choice
Which color of visible light is most effective in driving the rate of photosynthesis in green plants?
A
Red and blue light
B
Yellow light
C
Infrared light
D
Green light
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the process of photosynthesis: Photosynthesis is the process by which green plants convert light energy into chemical energy stored in glucose. This process primarily occurs in chloroplasts, where pigments like chlorophyll absorb light.
Learn about chlorophyll's absorption spectrum: Chlorophyll, the main pigment in green plants, absorbs light most effectively in the red (around 650-700 nm) and blue (around 400-500 nm) regions of the visible spectrum. It reflects green light, which is why plants appear green.
Analyze the role of different colors of light: Red and blue light are absorbed and used efficiently in photosynthesis, while green light is mostly reflected and contributes minimally to the process. Yellow light is absorbed to a lesser extent, and infrared light is outside the visible spectrum and does not drive photosynthesis.
Relate the absorption spectrum to photosynthetic efficiency: The rate of photosynthesis is highest when plants are exposed to red and blue light because these wavelengths provide the energy needed to excite electrons in chlorophyll molecules, initiating the light-dependent reactions.
Conclude based on evidence: Based on the absorption spectrum and photosynthetic efficiency, red and blue light are the most effective colors in driving the rate of photosynthesis in green plants.