It has been suggested that scientists should attempt to genetically engineer a plant to have black leaves so that it would perform photosynthesis more efficiently. What is the likely reason behind this idea?
A) Black plants would heat up faster and therefore all chemical reactions including photosynthesis would operate faster.
B) A black plant would reflect all wavelengths and therefore have more energy to drive photosynthesis.
C) A black plant would absorb all wavelengths and therefore absorb more light energy that powers photosynthesis.
D) A black plant would absorb green wavelengths like most plants, but would absorb them more efficiently.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

A black plant would absorb all wavelengths and therefore absorb more light energy that powers photosynthesis. This is because chlorophyll, the pigment responsible for photosynthesis, absorbs red and blue light, but reflects green light. Therefore, a black plant that absorbs all wavelengths would be able to absorb more light energy and perform photosynthesis more efficiently.

It Has Been Suggested That Scientists Should Attempt to Genetically