Which of the following statements about photophosphorylation is FALSE?

• A. Photophosphorylation involves the movement of electrons through an electron transport chain.
• B. Photophosphorylation uses light energy to generate ATP from ADP and inorganic phosphate.
• C. Photophosphorylation occurs in the thylakoid membranes of chloroplasts.
• D. Photophosphorylation directly produces glucose as its main product.

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Begin by understanding the concept of photophosphorylation. Photophosphorylation is the process by which light energy is used to drive the synthesis of ATP from ADP and inorganic phosphate (Pi) during photosynthesis. This occurs in the thylakoid membranes of chloroplasts.
2. Step 2: Review the role of the electron transport chain in photophosphorylation. Electrons are excited by light energy and move through the electron transport chain, creating a proton gradient across the thylakoid membrane. This gradient powers ATP synthase to produce ATP.
3. Step 3: Clarify the products of photophosphorylation. The main product of photophosphorylation is ATP, which is used in the Calvin cycle to synthesize glucose. However, photophosphorylation itself does not directly produce glucose.
4. Step 4: Analyze the statements provided in the problem. Compare each statement to the definition and process of photophosphorylation. Identify which statement contradicts the known facts about photophosphorylation.
5. Step 5: Conclude that the false statement is: 'Photophosphorylation directly produces glucose as its main product.' This is incorrect because glucose is produced later in the Calvin cycle, not directly during photophosphorylation.