Which of the following is a false statement about photosynthesis?
a. During the light-independent reactions, electrons and ATP from the light reactions combine with atmospheric carbon dioxide to produce sugars.
b. The light-independent reactions take place in the chloroplast stroma.
c. Oxygen produced during the light-independent reactions is released into the atmosphere.
d. Chlorophyll absorbs blue and red light and reflects green light.
e. The end product of photosynthesis is a carbohydrate such as glucose.

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Begin by understanding the two main stages of photosynthesis: the light-dependent reactions and the light-independent reactions (Calvin cycle). The light-dependent reactions occur in the thylakoid membranes and produce ATP, NADPH, and oxygen as a byproduct. The light-independent reactions occur in the stroma and use ATP and NADPH to convert carbon dioxide into sugars.
2. Step 2: Analyze each statement provided in the question to determine its accuracy based on your knowledge of photosynthesis. For example, statement (a) mentions the role of ATP and electrons in the light-independent reactions, which is correct. Statement (b) correctly identifies the location of the light-independent reactions in the chloroplast stroma.
3. Step 3: Evaluate statement (c), which claims that oxygen is produced during the light-independent reactions. Recall that oxygen is actually produced during the light-dependent reactions as a result of water splitting (photolysis). This makes statement (c) false.
4. Step 4: Review statement (d), which describes chlorophyll's absorption of blue and red light and reflection of green light. This is accurate and aligns with the properties of chlorophyll pigments.
5. Step 5: Confirm statement (e), which states that the end product of photosynthesis is a carbohydrate such as glucose. This is correct, as glucose is synthesized during the Calvin cycle using carbon dioxide, ATP, and NADPH.

Key Concepts

Photosynthesis Overview

Photosynthesis is the process by which green plants, algae, and some bacteria convert light energy into chemical energy, specifically glucose, using carbon dioxide and water. This process occurs primarily in the chloroplasts of plant cells and involves two main stages: the light-dependent reactions and the light-independent reactions (Calvin cycle).

Light-Dependent and Light-Independent Reactions

The light-dependent reactions occur in the thylakoid membranes of chloroplasts, where sunlight is captured to produce ATP and NADPH, releasing oxygen as a byproduct. The light-independent reactions, or Calvin cycle, take place in the stroma, utilizing ATP and NADPH to convert carbon dioxide into glucose. Understanding the distinction between these two stages is crucial for analyzing statements about photosynthesis.

Role of Chlorophyll

Chlorophyll is the green pigment found in chloroplasts that plays a vital role in photosynthesis by absorbing light energy, primarily in the blue and red wavelengths, while reflecting green light. This absorption of light energy is essential for driving the light-dependent reactions, which ultimately contribute to the synthesis of carbohydrates during photosynthesis.