A modified cell membrane that carries out photosynthesis using bacteriorhodopsin in the absence of chlorophyll is called a _______ membrane.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

A modified cell membrane that carries out photosynthesis using bacteriorhodopsin in the absence of chlorophyll is called a purple membrane. This is because bacteriorhodopsin is a purple-pigmented protein found in a group of bacteria called halobacteria, which live in salty environments such as salt flats and salt lakes. The purple color of the membrane comes from the absorption of light by bacteriorhodopsin, which pumps protons across the membrane to create an electrochemical gradient that can be used to generate ATP.

A Modified Cell Membrane That Carries Out Photosynthesis Using Bacteriorhodopsin