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Multiple Choice
Which of the following molecules is produced during the Calvin cycle in photosynthesis?
A
Glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate (G3P)
B
Pyruvate
C
Oxygen ($O_2$)
D
NADH
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 is responsible for converting carbon dioxide ($CO_2$) into organic molecules using energy from ATP and NADPH produced in the light-dependent reactions.
Identify the main product of the Calvin cycle: The primary molecule produced during the Calvin cycle is Glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate (G3P), a three-carbon sugar that serves as a precursor for glucose and other carbohydrates.
Eliminate incorrect options: Pyruvate is a product of glycolysis, not photosynthesis. Oxygen ($O_2$) is released during the light-dependent reactions of photosynthesis, not the Calvin cycle. NADH is involved in cellular respiration, not photosynthesis.
Focus on G3P: Glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate (G3P) is synthesized during the reduction phase of the Calvin cycle, where ATP and NADPH are used to convert 3-phosphoglycerate into G3P.
Conclude the reasoning: Based on the understanding of the Calvin cycle and the roles of the molecules listed, G3P is the correct answer as it is the direct product of the Calvin cycle.