Emerson and colleagues discovered the enhancement effect while studying photosynthesis in green algae.The algae were illuminated with light of either 680 nm or 700 nm,and the rate of photosynthesis was measured.The researchers found that the rate of photosynthesis when the lights were applied simultaneously was greater than the sum of the rates when the lights were applied individually.These results provided evidence that
A)photosynthesis is carried out by two photosystems that act in parallel.
B)photosynthesis is carried out by two photosystems that act in series.
C)photosynthesis is carried out by two photosystems that work best at a wavelength of 690 nm.
D)photosynthesis is enhanced by the use of two photosystems.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The enhancement effect observed by Emerson and colleagues suggests that photosynthesis is carried out by two photosystems that act in series. When both wavelengths of light (680 nm and 700 nm) are applied simultaneously, both photosystems are activated, leading to an increase in the rate of photosynthesis. This indicates that the two photosystems work together in a series, rather than in parallel or at a specific wavelength.

Emerson and Colleagues Discovered the Enhancement Effect While Studying Photosynthesis