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A spaceship is designed to support animal life for a multiyear voyage to the outer planets of the solar system. Plants will be grown to provide oxygen and to recycle carbon dioxide. Since the spaceship will be too far from the Sun for photosynthesis, an artificial light source will be needed.
What wavelengths of light should be used to maximize plant growth with a minimum of energy expenditure?
A) full-spectrum white light
B) green light
C) a mixture of blue and red light
D) yellow light
E) UV light

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Blue and red light are the most important wavelengths for photosynthesis, as they are absorbed the most by chlorophyll in plants. Therefore, a mixture of blue and red light will maximize plant growth. Full-spectrum white light may include wavelengths that are not as useful for photosynthesis, and will require more energy to produce. Green light is not absorbed as well by chlorophyll and will not promote as much growth. Yellow light and UV light also are not optimal for photosynthesis.

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