Why does chlorophyll appear green to the human eye?

• A. Because it emits green light during photosynthesis.
• B. Because it absorbs green wavelengths of light and reflects red and blue.
• C. Because it reflects green wavelengths of light and absorbs other wavelengths.
• D. Because it contains green-colored pigments called carotenoids.

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the concept of light absorption and reflection: Objects appear a certain color because they reflect specific wavelengths of light while absorbing others. Chlorophyll interacts with light in this way.
2. Learn about chlorophyll's role in photosynthesis: Chlorophyll is a pigment found in plants that absorbs light energy to drive the process of photosynthesis. It is most effective at absorbing light in the blue and red wavelengths.
3. Recognize the wavelengths chlorophyll absorbs: Chlorophyll absorbs light primarily in the blue (around 430-450 nm) and red (around 640-680 nm) regions of the visible spectrum.
4. Understand why chlorophyll appears green: Since chlorophyll absorbs blue and red wavelengths, it reflects the green wavelengths (around 500-550 nm), which is why it appears green to the human eye.
5. Clarify the incorrect options: Chlorophyll does not emit green light during photosynthesis, nor does it absorb green wavelengths. Carotenoids are different pigments that absorb light in other regions of the spectrum and are not responsible for the green color of chlorophyll.