Multiple Choice
Which of the following best describes the primary function of the Calvin cycle in photosynthesis?
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9. Photosynthesis
Calvin Cycle
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What is the primary function of the Calvin cycle in photosynthesis?
A
To absorb light energy using chlorophyll
B
To generate ATP through photophosphorylation
C
To split water molecules and release oxygen
D
To fix atmospheric CO$_2$ into organic molecules
Verified step by step guidance1
Step 1: Begin by understanding the context of photosynthesis, which is the process by which plants, algae, and some bacteria convert light energy into chemical energy stored in glucose.
Step 2: Recognize that photosynthesis consists of two main stages: the light-dependent reactions and the light-independent reactions (Calvin cycle). The light-dependent reactions occur in the thylakoid membranes and produce ATP and NADPH, while the Calvin cycle occurs in the stroma of the chloroplast.
Step 3: Learn the primary function of the Calvin cycle. It is a light-independent process that uses ATP and NADPH generated in the light-dependent reactions to convert atmospheric CO₂ into organic molecules, such as glucose, through a series of enzymatic reactions.
Step 4: Understand the term 'carbon fixation,' which refers to the process of incorporating inorganic CO₂ into organic molecules. This is the key role of the Calvin cycle, facilitated by the enzyme RuBisCO.
Step 5: Note that the Calvin cycle does not directly involve absorbing light energy, generating ATP, or splitting water molecules. These processes are part of the light-dependent reactions, not the Calvin cycle.
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