C 3 plants are more susceptible to photorespiration than either C 4 or CAM plants. Why do most plants lack the C 4 pathway?

The C4 and CAM pathways require additional energy compared to the C3 pathway, making them beneficial primarily in hot and/or arid environments where water conservation is critical, and the risk of photorespiration is higher.

C 3 plants are more susceptible to photorespiration than either C 4 or CAM plants. Why do most plants lack the C 4 pathway?

The C4 and CAM pathways require additional energy compared to the C3 pathway, making them beneficial primarily in hot and/or arid environments where water conservation is critical, and the risk of photorespiration is higher.

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C₃plants Are More Susceptible to Photorespiration Than Either C₄or CAM

Question 56

Multiple Choice

C₃plants are more susceptible to photorespiration than either C₄or CAM plants. Why do most plants lack the C₄pathway?

A) Rubisco is more efficient in C₃plants when compared to rubisco of C₄and CAM plants.
B) Photorespiration is not a serious problem for most plants.
C) Most plant species do not have vacuoles in their cells to store the malate generated from CO₂taken in during the night.
D) There is an energetic cost to C₄and CAM pathways that only makes them advantageous in very hot and/or arid environments.
E) Switching between C₃, C₄, and CAM photosynthesis is very difficult for most plants.

Correct Answer: