The ability to detect light is based, in part, to a change of one from of retinal to another. Specifically, what is this change?
A)a cis to trans conversion
B)a trans to cis conversion
C)A hydrogenation reaction
D)A dehydrogenation reaction

Question

The ability to detect light is based, in part, to a change of one from of retinal to another.  Specifically, what is this change?
A)a cis to trans conversion
B)a trans to cis conversion
C)A hydrogenation reaction
D)A dehydrogenation reaction

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The change from one form of retinal to another that allows for the detection of light is a cis to trans conversion. In the photoreceptor cells of the eye, the absorption of light by the retinal molecule leads to its change from the cis configuration to the trans configuration, which ultimately triggers a series of biochemical events resulting in a nerve impulse.

The Ability to Detect Light Is Based, in Part, to a Change