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Multiple Choice
Which process involved in photosynthesis removes carbon from the atmosphere?
A
Photolysis of water in the light reactions
B
Carbon fixation during the Calvin cycle
C
Glycolysis in the cytoplasm
D
Release of oxygen during photosynthesis
Verified step by step guidance
1
Step 1: Begin by understanding the overall process of photosynthesis, which consists of two main stages: the light-dependent reactions and the Calvin cycle (light-independent reactions). Photosynthesis is the process by which plants convert light energy into chemical energy, using carbon dioxide and water as reactants.
Step 2: Analyze the options provided. The question asks which process removes carbon from the atmosphere. This means identifying the step in photosynthesis where carbon dioxide is directly utilized.
Step 3: Recall that carbon fixation occurs during the Calvin cycle. In this process, carbon dioxide from the atmosphere is incorporated into organic molecules. Specifically, the enzyme RuBisCO catalyzes the reaction between carbon dioxide and ribulose-1,5-bisphosphate (RuBP), forming 3-phosphoglycerate (3-PGA). This is the step where carbon is removed from the atmosphere.
Step 4: Evaluate the other options to ensure they do not involve carbon removal. Photolysis of water in the light reactions refers to the splitting of water molecules to release oxygen, electrons, and protons, which does not involve carbon dioxide. Glycolysis occurs in the cytoplasm and is unrelated to photosynthesis. The release of oxygen during photosynthesis is a byproduct of the light reactions and does not involve carbon fixation.
Step 5: Conclude that the correct process involved in removing carbon from the atmosphere during photosynthesis is carbon fixation during the Calvin cycle. This step is essential for converting atmospheric carbon dioxide into organic compounds that can be used by the plant.