Photosynthesis is an example of which type of metabolic pathway?

• A. Anabolic pathway
• B. Catabolic pathway
• C. Fermentation pathway
• D. Glycolytic pathway

Answer: (A)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the concept of metabolic pathways: Metabolic pathways are sequences of chemical reactions occurring within a cell. They can be classified as anabolic (building up molecules) or catabolic (breaking down molecules).
2. Define an anabolic pathway: An anabolic pathway involves the synthesis of complex molecules from simpler ones, requiring energy input. Photosynthesis is an example of this because it synthesizes glucose from carbon dioxide and water using light energy.
3. Define a catabolic pathway: A catabolic pathway involves the breakdown of complex molecules into simpler ones, releasing energy. Photosynthesis does not fit this definition because it builds molecules rather than breaking them down.
4. Clarify why fermentation and glycolytic pathways are not correct: Fermentation is a process that occurs in the absence of oxygen to produce energy, and glycolysis is the breakdown of glucose into pyruvate. Neither of these processes involves the synthesis of glucose as in photosynthesis.
5. Conclude that photosynthesis is an anabolic pathway because it builds glucose molecules from simpler substances (carbon dioxide and water) using energy from sunlight.