Question 1

Which of the following best describes the overall equation for photosynthesis?

Accepted Answer

$6CO_2 + 6H_2O \rightarrow C_6H_{12}O_6 + 6O_2$

Question 2

Why is photosynthesis considered essential for life on Earth?

Accepted Answer

It is the main process that converts solar energy into chemical energy, producing oxygen and organic molecules.

Question 3

Which organelle is the site of photosynthesis in plant cells?

Accepted Answer

Chloroplast

Question 4

What is the main function of the light-harvesting complex in photosystems?

Accepted Answer

To capture light energy and transfer it to the reaction center

Question 5

Which of the following pigments is the primary pigment involved in photosynthesis?

Accepted Answer

Chlorophyll a

Question 6

What happens to an electron in a pigment molecule when it absorbs a photon?

Accepted Answer

It shifts from a lower energy orbital to a higher energy orbital

Question 7

Which of the following is a by-product of photosynthesis that is essential for aerobic respiration?

Accepted Answer

Oxygen

Question 8

Which organisms are considered primary producers due to their ability to perform photosynthesis?

Accepted Answer

Plants, algae, and cyanobacteria

Question 9

What is the role of the Calvin cycle in photosynthesis?

Accepted Answer

It uses ATP and NADPH to reduce $CO_2$ and synthesize carbohydrates.

Question 10

Which statement best explains why combining different pigments is advantageous for plants?

Accepted Answer

It allows absorption of light over a wider range of wavelengths.

Question 11

What is the first photo-oxidation reaction in photosynthesis?

Accepted Answer

The conversion of light energy into redox power in the reaction center

Question 12

Which of the following best describes the fate of glucose produced in photosynthesis?

Accepted Answer

It can be used in respiration, converted to other organic molecules, or stored.

Question 13

Which part of the chloroplast is the site of the light reactions?

Accepted Answer

Thylakoid membrane

Question 14

How does energy transfer between pigments in a photosystem occur?

Accepted Answer

By transferring the excitation energy from one pigment molecule to another until it reaches the reaction center

Question 15

Which of the following is NOT a product of the light reactions of photosynthesis?

Accepted Answer

Glucose

Question 16

A plant is exposed only to green light. What is the most likely outcome for its rate of photosynthesis?

Accepted Answer

It will decrease because chlorophyll absorbs poorly in the green region.

Question 17

Which of the following best explains the importance of photosynthesis in the context of global climate change?

Accepted Answer

Photosynthesis removes $CO_2$ from the atmosphere, helping to mitigate climate change.

Question 18

Which of the following statements about the products of photosynthesis is correct?

Accepted Answer

Oxygen is a by-product, and glucose is used as an energy source or building block.

Question 19

What is the main role of carotenoids in photosystems?

Accepted Answer

To absorb light in the blue-green region and transfer energy to chlorophyll

Question 20

Which of the following best describes the relationship between photosynthesis and cellular respiration?

Accepted Answer

Photosynthesis produces oxygen and glucose, which are used in cellular respiration to produce ATP.

Introduction to Photosynthesis: Structure, Function, and Importance

Study Guide - Practice Questions