Use the accompanying figure to answer the question below. The figure shows the absorption spectrum for chlorophyll a and the action spectrum for photosynthesis. Why are they different?
A) Green and yellow wavelengths inhibit the absorption of red and blue wavelengths.
B) Bright sunlight destroys photosynthetic pigments.
C) Oxygen given off during photosynthesis interferes with the absorption of light.
D) Other pigments absorb light in addition to chlorophyll a.
E) Aerobic bacteria take up oxygen, which changes the measurement of the rate of photosynthesis.

Question

Use the accompanying figure to answer the question below.  The figure shows the absorption spectrum for chlorophyll a and the action spectrum for photosynthesis. Why are they different?
A) Green and yellow wavelengths inhibit the absorption of red and blue wavelengths. 
B) Bright sunlight destroys photosynthetic pigments. 
C) Oxygen given off during photosynthesis interferes with the absorption of light. 
D) Other pigments absorb light in addition to chlorophyll a. 
E) Aerobic bacteria take up oxygen, which changes the measurement of the rate of photosynthesis.

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The absorption spectrum for chlorophyll a shows that it primarily absorbs red and blue wavelengths. However, the action spectrum for photosynthesis shows that it is most efficient at utilizing red and blue wavelengths, but can also use some green and yellow wavelengths. This suggests that there are other pigments in addition to chlorophyll a that can absorb some of the green and yellow wavelengths, allowing for photosynthesis to occur using a wider range of light.

Use the Accompanying Figure to Answer the Question Below