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Multiple Choice
Which color of visible light maximizes the rate of photosynthesis in most green plants?
A
Red
B
Violet
C
Yellow
D
Green
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. Chlorophyll, the main pigment in plants, absorbs light to drive this process.
Learn about the absorption spectrum of chlorophyll: Chlorophyll absorbs light most efficiently in the red (around 650-700 nm) and violet-blue (around 400-500 nm) regions of the visible spectrum. It reflects green light, which is why plants appear green.
Relate absorption to photosynthesis rate: Since chlorophyll absorbs red and violet-blue light most effectively, these colors maximize the rate of photosynthesis. Green light is least effective because it is mostly reflected rather than absorbed.
Eliminate incorrect options: Yellow light is not absorbed as efficiently as red or violet-blue light, and green light is reflected rather than absorbed. This leaves red and violet as the correct options.
Conclude based on chlorophyll's absorption spectrum: Red and violet light are the colors of visible light that maximize the rate of photosynthesis in most green plants due to their high absorption by chlorophyll.