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Multiple Choice
How many turns of the Calvin cycle are required to produce one molecule of glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate (G3P)?
A
2 turns
B
1 turn
C
3 turns
D
6 turns
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the Calvin cycle: The Calvin cycle is a series of biochemical reactions that occur in the stroma of chloroplasts during photosynthesis. It uses ATP and NADPH to convert carbon dioxide into organic molecules.
Recognize the goal of the cycle: The Calvin cycle aims to produce glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate (G3P), a 3-carbon sugar that can be used to form glucose and other carbohydrates.
Learn the carbon input-output relationship: Each turn of the Calvin cycle fixes one molecule of CO₂, contributing one carbon atom to the cycle. G3P is a 3-carbon molecule, so three CO₂ molecules are required to produce one G3P.
Account for the cycle's requirements: To produce one G3P molecule, the Calvin cycle must complete three turns, as each turn fixes one CO₂ molecule and contributes one carbon atom.
Understand the energy requirements: Each turn of the Calvin cycle consumes ATP and NADPH to drive the reactions. Producing one G3P molecule requires energy input from three turns of the cycle.