When chloroplast pigments absorb light, __________.

• A. the pigments become reduced
• B. the pigments lose potential energy
• C. the Calvin cycle is triggered
• D. the pigments' photons become excited
• E. the pigments' electrons become excited

Answer: (E)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the role of chloroplast pigments: Chloroplasts contain pigments like chlorophyll that are crucial for photosynthesis. These pigments absorb light energy, which is essential for the process.
2. Recognize the effect of light absorption: When chloroplast pigments absorb light, they gain energy from the photons. This energy is transferred to the electrons within the pigment molecules.
3. Identify the change in electron state: The absorption of light energy causes the electrons in the pigment molecules to move to a higher energy level, meaning they become 'excited'.
4. Clarify the concept of excited electrons: Excited electrons have more energy than they do in their ground state. This increased energy is used in subsequent steps of photosynthesis to convert light energy into chemical energy.
5. Connect to the broader process: The excitation of electrons is a critical initial step in photosynthesis, leading to the conversion of light energy into chemical energy through processes like the electron transport chain and the Calvin cycle.