Multiple Choice
Which of the following statements correctly describes carbon fixation in photosynthesis?
7
views
9. Photosynthesis
Introduction to Photosynthesis
Struggling with General Biology?
Join thousands of students who trust us to help them ace their exams!Watch the first videoMultiple Choice
In the context of photosynthesis, what term describes the conversion of inorganic carbon (such as $\mathrm{CO_2}$) into organic carbon compounds?
A
Photolysis
B
Carbon fixation
C
Chemiosmosis
D
Photorespiration
Verified step by step guidance1
Understand the context of photosynthesis: Photosynthesis is the process by which plants, algae, and some bacteria convert light energy into chemical energy stored in glucose or other organic molecules.
Identify the key term in the question: The question asks about the conversion of inorganic carbon (like $ ext{CO}_2$) into organic carbon compounds, which is a specific step in photosynthesis.
Recall the Calvin Cycle: In photosynthesis, the Calvin Cycle is the stage where carbon fixation occurs. This process involves the enzyme RuBisCO incorporating $ ext{CO}_2$ into a 5-carbon sugar called ribulose-1,5-bisphosphate (RuBP), forming 3-phosphoglycerate (3-PGA).
Clarify the term 'carbon fixation': Carbon fixation refers to the process of converting inorganic carbon (like $ ext{CO}_2$) into organic molecules, which are used to build sugars and other compounds in the plant.
Eliminate incorrect options: Photolysis refers to the splitting of water molecules during the light-dependent reactions, chemiosmosis involves the generation of ATP via a proton gradient, and photorespiration is a wasteful process where oxygen is used instead of $ ext{CO}_2$ in the Calvin Cycle. The correct term for the described process is 'carbon fixation.'
3:32mWatch next
Master Introduction to Photosynthesis with a bite sized video explanation from Jason
Start learningRelated Videos
Related Practice
Introduction to Photosynthesis practice set
Problem sets built by lead tutorsExpert video explanations