MDCAT Biology MCQ #543

When plotting the efficiency of photosynthesis against wavelength, what does the action spectrum represent that an absorption spectrum does not?

MDCAT Biology MCQ #543

  1. Question 1

    Q1. When plotting the efficiency of photosynthesis against wavelength, what does the action spectrum represent that an absorption spectrum does not?

    • A) The relative effectiveness of different wavelengths for photosynthesis
    • B) The specific wavelengths of light absorbed by chlorophyll a
    • C) The total amount of light energy reflected by the leaf
    • D) The percentage of green light used by accessory pigments

    Answer: The relative effectiveness of different wavelengths for photosynthesis

    Explanation: The absorption spectrum measures light intake, while the action spectrum measures biological effectiveness; they overlap but are not identical.