Energy from sunlight can excite electrons, kicking them out of their orbitals and creating free radicals. Free radicals are highly reactive atoms or molecules that have unpaired electrons and degrade and destroy other compounds in their vicinity. Carotenoids, one of the pigments present in most chloroplasts, can stabilize these free radicals. This suggests that ________.
A) once chloroplasts are destroyed, the free radicals will destroy the cell
B) carotenoids probably have a protective function in the cell
C) free radicals induce the synthesis of carotenoids in chloroplasts
D) carotenoids communicate directly with the immune system of plants

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The fact that carotenoids can stabilize free radicals suggests that they have a protective function in the cell, helping to prevent the degradation of other compounds. The statement does not provide evidence for choices A, C, or D.

Energy from Sunlight Can Excite Electrons, Kicking Them Out of Their