2.
The light reactions of photosynthesis supply the Calvin cycle with
Correct Answer
A. ATP and NADPH.
Explanation
The light reactions of photosynthesis convert light energy into chemical energy in the form of ATP and NADPH. These energy-rich molecules are then used in the Calvin cycle, the second stage of photosynthesis, to convert carbon dioxide into glucose. Therefore, ATP and NADPH are the correct answer because they provide the energy needed for the Calvin cycle to occur.
3.
A. photosynthesis
B. respiration
C. both photosynthesis and respiration
D. neither photosynthesis nor respiration
Refer to the choices above. Indicate during which process the following occurs:
generation of proton gradients across membranes
Correct Answer
C
c
Explanation
During both photosynthesis and respiration, the generation of proton gradients across membranes occurs. In photosynthesis, proton gradients are generated during the light-dependent reactions in the thylakoid membrane of chloroplasts. In respiration, proton gradients are generated during the electron transport chain in the inner mitochondrial membrane. Therefore, both photosynthesis and respiration involve the generation of proton gradients across membranes.
4.
Which of the following statements is a correct distinction between autotrophs and heterotrophs?
Correct Answer
A. Autotrophs, but not heterotrophs, can nourish themselves beginning with CO2 and other nutrients that are inorganic.
Explanation
Autotrophs are able to produce their own food using inorganic compounds like CO2 and other nutrients, while heterotrophs rely on obtaining organic compounds from their environment. This statement correctly distinguishes autotrophs from heterotrophs by highlighting their different abilities to nourish themselves.
5.
Which of the following are products of the light reactions of photosynthesis that are utilized in the Calvin cycle?
Correct Answer
A. ATP and NADPH
Explanation
ATP and NADPH are products of the light reactions of photosynthesis that are utilized in the Calvin cycle. The light reactions occur in the thylakoid membrane of the chloroplasts and involve the absorption of light energy, which is used to generate ATP and NADPH. These energy-rich molecules are then used in the Calvin cycle, which takes place in the stroma of the chloroplasts, to fuel the production of glucose. CO2 and glucose are not products of the light reactions, but rather are involved in the Calvin cycle itself. H2O and O2 are reactants in the light reactions, while ADP, Pi, and NADP+ are molecules that are regenerated during the light reactions but are not directly utilized in the Calvin cycle.
6.
What is the primary function of the light reactions of photosynthesis?
Correct Answer
A. To produce ATP and NADPH
Explanation
The primary function of the light reactions of photosynthesis is to produce ATP and NADPH. These molecules are essential for the Calvin cycle, where they are used to convert carbon dioxide into glucose. ATP is the main energy currency of cells, providing the energy needed for various cellular processes. NADPH is a reducing agent that provides the necessary electrons for the synthesis of glucose. Therefore, the production of ATP and NADPH in the light reactions is crucial for the overall process of photosynthesis.
7.
The reaction-center chlorophyll of photosystem I is known as P700 because
Correct Answer
A. This pigment is best at absorbing light with a wavelength of 700 nm.
Explanation
The reaction-center chlorophyll of photosystem I is known as P700 because this pigment is best at absorbing light with a wavelength of 700 nm. This suggests that P700 is specifically adapted to capture light energy at this wavelength, allowing photosystem I to efficiently convert light energy into chemical energy during photosynthesis.
8.
Where does the Calvin cycle take place?
Correct Answer
A. Stroma of the chloroplast
Explanation
The Calvin cycle takes place in the stroma of the chloroplast. The stroma is the fluid-filled region inside the chloroplast where various metabolic reactions occur, including the Calvin cycle. In this cycle, carbon dioxide is converted into glucose using the energy from ATP and NADPH produced during the light-dependent reactions that take place in the thylakoid membrane. Therefore, the stroma provides the necessary environment for the Calvin cycle to occur and for the synthesis of glucose, an essential molecule for plant growth and metabolism.
9.
For the following, use the key below:
A. light reactions alone
B. the Calvin cycle alone
C. both the light reactions and the Calvin cycle
D. neither the light reactions nor the Calvin cycle
E. occurs in the chloroplast but is not part of photosynthesis
Produces three-carbon sugars
Correct Answer
B
b
Explanation
The correct answer is B, the Calvin cycle alone. The Calvin cycle is the second stage of photosynthesis and occurs in the stroma of the chloroplast. It is responsible for converting carbon dioxide into three-carbon sugars, such as glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate (G3P). The light reactions, on the other hand, occur in the thylakoid membrane and are responsible for capturing light energy and converting it into chemical energy in the form of ATP and NADPH. Therefore, the production of three-carbon sugars specifically occurs during the Calvin cycle and not during the light reactions.
10.
Organisms that can exist with light as an energy source and an inorganic form of carbon and other raw materials
Correct Answer
A. Are called photoautotrophs.
Explanation
Photoautotrophs are organisms that can use light as an energy source and inorganic forms of carbon and other raw materials to carry out photosynthesis. They are able to convert sunlight into chemical energy, which they use to synthesize organic compounds. This ability allows them to produce their own food and sustain themselves without relying on other organisms. Examples of photoautotrophs include plants, algae, and some bacteria.
11.
For the following, use the key below:
A. light reactions alone
B. the Calvin cycle alone
C. both the light reactions and the Calvin cycle
D. neither the light reactions nor the Calvin cycle
E. occurs in the chloroplast but is not part of photosynthesis
Requires glucose
Correct Answer
D
d
Explanation
The correct answer is D,d. This answer indicates that the process described does not require either the light reactions or the Calvin cycle. It suggests that the process is not part of photosynthesis and does not produce glucose.
12.
Which of the following statements best represents the relationships between the light reactions and the Calvin cycle?
Correct Answer
A. The light reactions provide ATP and NADPH to the Calvin cycle, and the cycle returns ADP, Pi, and NADP+ to the light reactions.
Explanation
The light reactions in photosynthesis convert light energy into chemical energy in the form of ATP and NADPH. These energy-rich molecules are then used in the Calvin cycle, which is the process that fixes carbon dioxide and produces sugars. In the Calvin cycle, ATP and NADPH are consumed, and ADP, Pi (inorganic phosphate), and NADP+ are produced. This creates a cyclical relationship between the light reactions and the Calvin cycle, where the light reactions provide the necessary energy molecules for the Calvin cycle, and the Calvin cycle returns the spent molecules back to the light reactions for regeneration.
13.
Where do the enzymatic reactions of the Calvin cycle take place?
Correct Answer
A. Stroma of the chloroplast
Explanation
The enzymatic reactions of the Calvin cycle take place in the stroma of the chloroplast. The stroma is the fluid-filled space inside the chloroplast, surrounding the thylakoid membranes. This is where the enzymes necessary for the Calvin cycle are located, and where the carbon fixation and reduction reactions occur. The thylakoid membranes, on the other hand, are responsible for the light-dependent reactions of photosynthesis, not the Calvin cycle.
14.
What is the primary function of the Calvin cycle?
Correct Answer
A. Synthesize simple sugars from carbon dioxide
Explanation
The primary function of the Calvin cycle is to synthesize simple sugars from carbon dioxide. The cycle uses the energy from ATP and the reducing power of NADPH, both produced during the light-dependent reactions of photosynthesis, to convert carbon dioxide into glucose and other organic compounds. This process is known as carbon fixation and is essential for the production of carbohydrates, which serve as a source of energy and building blocks for plants and other organisms.
15.
All of the following statements are correct regarding the Calvin cycle except:
Correct Answer
A. These reactions begin soon after sundown and end before sunrise.
16.
For the following, use the key below:
A. light reactions alone
B. the Calvin cycle alone
C. both the light reactions and the Calvin cycle
D. neither the light reactions nor the Calvin cycle
E. occurs in the chloroplast but is not part of photosynthesis
Produces NADpH
Correct Answer
A
a
Explanation
The correct answer is A, which means that the process produces NADPH. This suggests that the process involved is the light reactions alone, as NADPH is a product of the light reactions in photosynthesis. The Calvin cycle, on the other hand, produces NADP+ and not NADPH. Therefore, the correct answer indicates that the process is specifically related to the light reactions and not the Calvin cycle.
17.
A plant has a unique photosynthetic pigment. The leaves of this plant appear to be reddish yellow. What wavelengths of visible light are not being absorbed by this pigment?
Correct Answer
A. Red and yellow
Explanation
The correct answer is red and yellow. This is because the leaves of the plant appear reddish yellow, which means that the pigment in the plant is absorbing all other wavelengths of visible light except for red and yellow. The absorbed light is used for photosynthesis, while the red and yellow light is reflected, giving the leaves their color.
18.
A. photosynthesis
B. respiration
C. both photosynthesis and respiration
D. neither photosynthesis nor respiration
Refer to the choices above. Indicate during which process the following occurs:
reduction of NADP+
Correct Answer
A
a
Explanation
During photosynthesis, the reduction of NADP+ occurs. NADP+ is reduced to NADPH, which is an important molecule in the light-dependent reactions of photosynthesis. This reduction reaction involves the transfer of electrons and hydrogen ions to NADP+, converting it into NADPH. This process is essential for the production of energy-rich molecules, such as glucose, during photosynthesis.
19.
For the following, use the key below:
A. light reactions alone
B. the Calvin cycle alone
C. both the light reactions and the Calvin cycle
D. neither the light reactions nor the Calvin cycle
E. occurs in the chloroplast but is not part of photosynthesis
Requires CO2
Correct Answer
B
b
Explanation
The correct answer is B, the Calvin cycle alone. The Calvin cycle is a series of chemical reactions that occur in the chloroplasts of plants and algae. It is responsible for converting carbon dioxide into glucose, a process known as carbon fixation. This process does not require light and can occur in the absence of light reactions. Therefore, the statement "Requires CO2" is consistent with the Calvin cycle alone. The other options are not applicable because they either involve both light reactions and the Calvin cycle (option C), or neither light reactions nor the Calvin cycle (option D). Option E is incorrect because the Calvin cycle is indeed part of photosynthesis.
20.
Which of the following statements about the light reactions of photosynthesis are true?
Correct Answer
A. A, B, and C are true.
Explanation
The correct answer is A, B, and C are true. In the light reactions of photosynthesis, water molecules are split to provide a source of electrons. Chlorophyll and other pigments absorb light energy, which excites electrons. ATP is generated by photophosphorylation, a process that uses light energy to add a phosphate group to ADP. Therefore, all three statements are true.
21.
What are the products of noncyclic photophosphorylation?
Correct Answer
A. ATP and NADPH
Explanation
Noncyclic photophosphorylation is a process in photosynthesis where ATP and NADPH are produced. During this process, light energy is absorbed by photosystem II (P680), which excites electrons. These electrons then pass through an electron transport chain, generating ATP through chemiosmosis. The electrons are then transferred to photosystem I (P700), where they are re-energized by another photon of light. Finally, the electrons are transferred to NADP+, reducing it to NADPH. Therefore, the correct answer is ATP and NADPH.
22.
Why are C4 plants able to photosynthesize with no apparent photorespiration?
Correct Answer
A. They use PEP carboxylase to initially fix CO2.
Explanation
C4 plants are able to photosynthesize with no apparent photorespiration because they use PEP carboxylase to initially fix CO2. This enzyme has a higher affinity for CO2 than for oxygen, allowing the plants to efficiently fix carbon dioxide and minimize the wasteful process of photorespiration. By using PEP carboxylase, C4 plants can effectively capture CO2 even in conditions of high oxygen concentration, making them more efficient at photosynthesis.
23.
How many carbon dioxide molecules must be added to RuBP to make a single molecule of glucose?
Explanation
In the process of photosynthesis, carbon dioxide molecules are used to synthesize glucose. The molecule that accepts carbon dioxide during this process is called RuBP (ribulose-1,5-bisphosphate). To produce one molecule of glucose, six molecules of carbon dioxide must be added to RuBP. This is because glucose has six carbon atoms, and each carbon atom comes from a carbon dioxide molecule. Therefore, the correct answer is 6.
24.
What wavelength of light is most effective in driving photosynthesis?
Explanation
The correct answer is 420 mm. This wavelength of light is most effective in driving photosynthesis because it corresponds to the peak absorption spectrum of chlorophyll, the pigment responsible for capturing light energy in plants. This means that plants are able to absorb and utilize the energy from light with a wavelength of 420 mm most efficiently for the process of photosynthesis.
25.
Where is the electron transport chain found in plant cells?
Correct Answer
A. Thylakoid membranes of chloroplasts
Explanation
The electron transport chain is found in the thylakoid membranes of chloroplasts in plant cells. This is where the light-dependent reactions of photosynthesis occur. During these reactions, light energy is used to generate high-energy electrons, which are then passed through the electron transport chain in the thylakoid membranes. This process ultimately leads to the production of ATP and NADPH, which are used in the light-independent reactions of photosynthesis to convert carbon dioxide into glucose.
26.
Of the following, what do both mitochondria and chloroplasts have in common?
Correct Answer
A. B and C only
Explanation
Both mitochondria and chloroplasts have in common the presence of thylakoid membranes, which are involved in photosynthesis. Additionally, both organelles utilize chemiosmosis, a process that generates ATP by pumping protons across a membrane. ATP synthase is the enzyme responsible for the synthesis of ATP in both mitochondria and chloroplasts. Therefore, the correct answer is B and C only.
27.
Which statement is false?
Correct Answer
A. RuBP is produced during cyclic electron flow in the light reactions of photosynthesis.
Explanation
RuBP is not produced during cyclic electron flow in the light reactions of photosynthesis. RuBP, or ribulose-1,5-bisphosphate, is actually a molecule that is regenerated during the Calvin cycle, not during the cyclic electron flow. The cyclic electron flow is a process that occurs in the thylakoid membrane and generates ATP, but it does not produce RuBP.
28.
For the following, use the key below:
A. light reactions alone
B. the Calvin cycle alone
C. both the light reactions and the Calvin cycle
D. neither the light reactions nor the Calvin cycle
E. occurs in the chloroplast but is not part of photosynthesis
Produces molecular oxygen (O2)
Correct Answer
A
a
Explanation
The correct answer is A, light reactions alone. The production of molecular oxygen (O2) occurs during the light reactions of photosynthesis. In this process, light energy is absorbed by chlorophyll and other pigments in the chloroplasts, leading to the splitting of water molecules. This results in the release of oxygen as a byproduct. The Calvin cycle, on the other hand, is responsible for the synthesis of glucose using the energy and products generated by the light reactions. Therefore, the production of molecular oxygen specifically occurs during the light reactions, making option A the correct answer.
29.
Which of the following sequences correctly represents the flow of electrons during photosynthesis?
Correct Answer
A. H2O → NADPH → Calvin cycle
30.
In the thylakoid membranes, what is the main role of the antenna pigment molecules?
Correct Answer
A. Harvest photons and transfer light energy to the reaction-center chlorophyll
Explanation
The main role of the antenna pigment molecules in the thylakoid membranes is to harvest photons and transfer light energy to the reaction-center chlorophyll. These pigment molecules are responsible for absorbing light of various wavelengths and transferring the energy to the reaction-center chlorophyll, where it is used in the process of photosynthesis. This allows the plant to convert light energy into chemical energy, which is essential for the production of ATP and NADPH, the molecules needed for the synthesis of glucose.
31.
As a research scientist, you measure the amount of ATP and NADpH consumed by the Calvin cycle in 1 hour. You find 30,000 molecules of ATP consumed, but only 20,000 molecules of NADpH. Where did the extra ATP molecules come from?
Correct Answer
A. Cyclic electron flow
Explanation
Cyclic electron flow is the process in photosynthesis where electrons from photosystem I are cycled back to the electron transport chain instead of being transferred to NADP+ to produce NADPH. This process generates additional ATP molecules without consuming NADPH. Therefore, the extra ATP molecules in this scenario likely came from cyclic electron flow.
32.
Which of the following is (are) required in the Calvin cycle?
Correct Answer
A. A, B, and C
Explanation
In the Calvin cycle, all three options - CO2, ATP, and RuBP - are required. CO2 is used as a carbon source to produce glucose, ATP provides energy for the reactions, and RuBP is the starting molecule that combines with CO2 to initiate the cycle. Therefore, all three components are necessary for the Calvin cycle to occur.
33.
In C4 photosynthesis, carbon fixation takes place in the ________ cells, and then is transferred as malic or aspartic acid to ________ cells, where carbon dioxide is released for entry into the Calvin cycle.
Correct Answer
A. Mesophyll; bundle-sheath
Explanation
In C4 photosynthesis, carbon fixation takes place in the mesophyll cells, where carbon dioxide is initially converted into a four-carbon compound. This four-carbon compound is then transferred as malic or aspartic acid to the bundle-sheath cells, where carbon dioxide is released for entry into the Calvin cycle.
34.
All of the events listed below occur in the light reactions of photosynthesis except
Correct Answer
A. Carbon dioxide is incorporated into PGA.
Explanation
In the light reactions of photosynthesis, oxygen is produced as a byproduct of the splitting of water molecules. NADP+ is reduced to NADPH, which is an important electron carrier in the process. ADP is phosphorylated to yield ATP, which is the main energy currency of the cell. Light is absorbed and funneled to reaction-center chlorophyll a, which is necessary for the initiation of photosynthesis. However, carbon dioxide is not incorporated into PGA (phosphoglycerate), a molecule that is formed during the Calvin cycle, which is the second stage of photosynthesis.
35.
In mitochondria, chemiosmosis translocates protons from the matrix into the intermembrane space, whereas in chloroplasts, chemiosmosis translocates protons from
Correct Answer
A. The stroma to the thylakoid space.
Explanation
In chloroplasts, chemiosmosis translocates protons from the stroma to the thylakoid space. This is because during photosynthesis, protons are pumped across the thylakoid membrane from the stroma to the thylakoid space, creating a proton gradient. This gradient is then used by ATP synthase to produce ATP, which is an important energy source for the cell. Therefore, the correct answer is the stroma to the thylakoid space.
36.
A. photosynthesis
B. respiration
C. both photosynthesis and respiration
D. neither photosynthesis nor respiration
Refer to the choices above. Indicate during which process the following occurs:
reduction of oxygen which forms water
Correct Answer
B
b
Explanation
During respiration, the reduction of oxygen occurs, which forms water. This process takes place in the mitochondria of cells. Oxygen is used as the final electron acceptor in the electron transport chain, and as a result, it is reduced to form water. This process is essential for the production of energy in the form of ATP. Therefore, the correct answer is respiration.
37.
Plants that fix CO2 into organic acids at night when the stomata are open and carry out the Calvin cycle during the day when the stomata are closed are called
Correct Answer
A. CAM plants.
Explanation
CAM plants, or Crassulacean Acid Metabolism plants, are able to fix CO2 into organic acids at night when their stomata are open. During the day, when the stomata are closed to prevent water loss, they carry out the Calvin cycle using the stored organic acids. This adaptation allows CAM plants to survive in arid environments with limited water availability. C3 plants and C4 plants have different mechanisms for fixing CO2 and do not exhibit this specific behavior. Therefore, the correct answer is CAM plants.
38.
In mechanism, photophosphorylation is most similar to
Correct Answer
A. Oxidative phosphorylation in cellular respiration.
Explanation
Photophosphorylation is the process of using light energy to generate ATP in photosynthesis. Similarly, oxidative phosphorylation is the process of generating ATP in cellular respiration by utilizing energy from the electron transport chain. Both processes involve the generation of ATP through the transfer of electrons and the establishment of a proton gradient across a membrane. Therefore, oxidative phosphorylation in cellular respiration is the most similar process to photophosphorylation.
39.
In what respect are the photosynthetic adaptations of C4 plants and CAM plants similar?
Correct Answer
A. In both cases, an enzyme other than rubisco carries out the first step in carbon fixation.
Explanation
Both C4 plants and CAM plants have a similar photosynthetic adaptation where an enzyme other than rubisco carries out the first step in carbon fixation. This means that instead of using the enzyme rubisco, which is the primary enzyme involved in carbon fixation in most plants, these types of plants use a different enzyme to initiate the process. This adaptation allows them to efficiently capture and utilize carbon dioxide, especially in environments with high temperatures or limited water availability.
40.
Which of the following does not occur during the Calvin cycle?
Correct Answer
A. Release of oxygen
Explanation
During the Calvin cycle, carbon fixation occurs as carbon dioxide is converted into organic molecules. The oxidation of NADPH also takes place, where NADPH is oxidized to NADP+. The regeneration of the CO2 acceptor is another step in the Calvin cycle, as the molecule that accepts the carbon dioxide is regenerated. Additionally, the consumption of ATP is necessary for the energy required in the Calvin cycle. However, the release of oxygen does not occur during the Calvin cycle. Oxygen is produced as a byproduct of the light-dependent reactions of photosynthesis, not during the Calvin cycle itself.
41.
This figure shows the absorption spectrum for chlorophyll a and the action spectrum for photosynthesis. Why are they different?
Correct Answer
A. Other pigments absorb light in addition to chlorophyll a.
Explanation
The absorption spectrum for chlorophyll a shows the wavelengths of light that chlorophyll a can absorb. However, the action spectrum for photosynthesis shows the wavelengths of light that are most effective in driving the process of photosynthesis. The fact that the action spectrum and absorption spectrum are different suggests that other pigments, in addition to chlorophyll a, are involved in absorbing light and driving photosynthesis. These additional pigments can absorb wavelengths of light that chlorophyll a cannot, allowing for a wider range of light to be utilized in photosynthesis.
42.
For the following, use the key below:
A. light reactions alone
B. the Calvin cycle alone
C. both the light reactions and the Calvin cycle
D. neither the light reactions nor the Calvin cycle
E. occurs in the chloroplast but is not part of photosynthesis
Produces NADH
Correct Answer
D
d
Explanation
The correct answer is D, which means that the process does not involve either the light reactions or the Calvin cycle. The lowercase "d" is likely a typographical error and does not affect the explanation. This suggests that the process mentioned, which is the production of NADH, is not a part of photosynthesis. Photosynthesis involves the conversion of light energy into chemical energy in the form of glucose, and NADH is not directly produced in this process. Therefore, the correct answer is D, indicating that the process of producing NADH is not related to photosynthesis.
43.
Which type of organism obtains energy by metabolizing molecules produced by other organisms?
Correct Answer
A. B and C
Explanation
Heterotrophs obtain energy by metabolizing molecules produced by other organisms, while decomposers also obtain energy by breaking down dead organic matter. Autotrophs, on the other hand, are organisms that can produce their own energy through photosynthesis or chemosynthesis. Therefore, the correct answer is B and C.
44.
What does the chemiosmotic process in chloroplasts involve?
Correct Answer
A. Establishment of a proton gradient
Explanation
The chemiosmotic process in chloroplasts involves the establishment of a proton gradient. This process occurs during photosynthesis, where light energy is converted into chemical energy in the form of ATP. The energy from light is used to pump protons across the thylakoid membrane, creating a concentration gradient. This gradient is then used to drive the synthesis of ATP through the enzyme ATP synthase. Thus, the correct answer is the establishment of a proton gradient.
45.
All of the following are directly associated with photosystem II except
Correct Answer
A. NADP+ reductase.
Explanation
Photosystem II is responsible for the extraction of hydrogen electrons from the splitting of water, the release of oxygen, and the harvesting of light energy by chlorophyll. NADP+ reductase, on the other hand, is associated with photosystem I, which is responsible for the transfer of electrons to NADP+ to form NADPH. Therefore, NADP+ reductase is not directly associated with photosystem II.
46.
One carbon dioxide molecule reacts in each "turn" of the Calvin cycle. How many turns of the cycle are required for the synthesis of one glucose molecule?
Explanation
In the Calvin cycle, one carbon dioxide molecule is fixed and converted into glucose in each turn. Since one glucose molecule contains six carbon atoms, it would require six turns of the Calvin cycle to synthesize one glucose molecule.
47.
CAM plants keep stomata closed in daytime, thus reducing loss of water. They can do this because they
Correct Answer
A. Fix CO2 into organic acids during the night.
Explanation
CAM plants keep stomata closed in daytime to reduce water loss. They fix CO2 into organic acids during the night as a strategy to minimize water loss while still obtaining the necessary carbon dioxide for photosynthesis. This allows them to store the fixed CO2 in the form of organic acids, which can be used during the day when the stomata are closed. By fixing CO2 into organic acids, CAM plants can effectively adapt to arid conditions and conserve water.
48.
In C3 plants the conservation of water promotes
Correct Answer
A. Photorespiration.
Explanation
In C3 plants, the conservation of water promotes photorespiration. Photorespiration is a process that occurs in plants when there is a shortage of carbon dioxide and excess oxygen. It is a wasteful process that reduces the efficiency of photosynthesis and can lead to a loss of energy and resources for the plant. To conserve water, C3 plants close their stomata, which reduces the intake of carbon dioxide and increases the concentration of oxygen in the leaf. This promotes photorespiration as the excess oxygen inhibits the normal photosynthetic process. Therefore, the conservation of water in C3 plants promotes photorespiration.
49.
In an experiment studying photosynthesis performed during the day, you provide a plant with radioactive carbon (14C) dioxide as a metabolic tracer. The 14C is incorporated first into oxaloacetate. The plant is best characterized as a
Correct Answer
A. C4 plant.
Explanation
In C4 plants, the first stable product of carbon fixation is a four-carbon compound called oxaloacetate. This is in contrast to C3 plants, where the first stable product is a three-carbon compound called 3-phosphoglycerate. CAM plants also initially fix carbon as a C3 compound, but they do so at night and store it as an organic acid before using it during the day. Heterotrophs obtain their carbon from organic compounds, while chemoautotrophs use inorganic chemicals as a source of energy and carbon dioxide as a source of carbon. Therefore, the plant in this experiment is best characterized as a C4 plant.