Some photosynthetic organisms contain chloroplasts that lack photosystem II, yet are able to survive. Which of the following approaches would be the best way to detect the lack of photosystem II in these organisms?
A) Determine whether they have thylakoid membranes.
B) Determine whether they consume CO₂ in the dark.
C) Determine whether they produce O₂ in the light.
D) Determine the action spectrum for photosynthesis in these organisms.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Photosystem II is responsible for producing oxygen during photosynthesis. Therefore, determining whether these organisms produce oxygen in the light would be the best way to detect the lack of photosystem II. Option A is not relevant as all chloroplasts have thylakoid membranes. Option B may not be accurate as some organisms may consume CO₂ in the dark due to cellular respiration. Option D may not be specific as the action spectrum can be affected by other factors in addition to photosystem II.

Some Photosynthetic Organisms Contain Chloroplasts That Lack Photosystem II, Yet