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Multiple Choice
At the end of the Calvin cycle, which molecules contain the energy that originally came from light?
A
NADPH
B
ATP
C
Oxygen (O_2)
D
Glucose (C_6H_{12}O_6)
Verified step by step guidance
1
Step 1: Begin by understanding the Calvin cycle, which is part of photosynthesis. It occurs in the stroma of chloroplasts and uses ATP and NADPH produced during the light-dependent reactions to convert carbon dioxide (CO₂) into glucose (C₆H₁₂O₆).
Step 2: Recall that ATP and NADPH are energy carriers generated during the light-dependent reactions. These molecules provide the energy and reducing power needed for the Calvin cycle to synthesize glucose.
Step 3: Note that oxygen (O₂) is a byproduct of the light-dependent reactions, specifically during the splitting of water molecules (photolysis). It is not involved in the Calvin cycle or in storing energy from light.
Step 4: Understand that glucose (C₆H₁₂O₆) is the final product of the Calvin cycle. It is a stable molecule that stores the energy originally captured from light in the form of chemical bonds.
Step 5: Conclude that the energy from light is ultimately stored in glucose (C₆H₁₂O₆) at the end of the Calvin cycle, as it is the primary energy-rich molecule synthesized during photosynthesis.