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Multiple Choice
Which of the following statements about carotenoids is correct?
A
Carotenoids are proteins that catalyze metabolic reactions.
B
Carotenoids are found only in animal cells.
C
Carotenoids are a type of nucleic acid involved in genetic information storage.
D
Carotenoids are pigments that play a role in photosynthesis by capturing light energy.
Verified step by step guidance
1
Step 1: Begin by understanding what carotenoids are. Carotenoids are organic pigments found in plants, algae, and some bacteria. They are not proteins, nucleic acids, or exclusive to animal cells.
Step 2: Clarify the role of carotenoids in photosynthesis. Carotenoids absorb light energy, particularly wavelengths that chlorophyll cannot absorb efficiently, and transfer this energy to chlorophyll molecules.
Step 3: Highlight the protective function of carotenoids. They help protect plant cells from damage caused by excess light energy by dissipating it as heat, preventing oxidative stress.
Step 4: Compare carotenoids to other biological molecules. Unlike proteins, which catalyze reactions, or nucleic acids, which store genetic information, carotenoids are pigments with a specialized role in light absorption and energy transfer.
Step 5: Conclude by identifying the correct statement. Carotenoids are pigments that play a role in photosynthesis by capturing light energy, which aligns with their biological function and presence in photosynthetic organisms.