The electromagnetic spectrum is the range of all types of electromagnetic radiation, from gamma rays to radio waves. In photosynthesis, specific wavelengths within this spectrum are absorbed by pigments to drive the light-dependent reactions.
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Visible light, a part of the electromagnetic spectrum, is crucial for photosynthesis as it provides the energy needed for the light-dependent reactions.
Chlorophyll absorbs light most efficiently in the blue and red parts of the electromagnetic spectrum while reflecting green light.
Different pigments like chlorophyll a, chlorophyll b, and carotenoids absorb different wavelengths within the visible spectrum to maximize energy capture.
The energy from absorbed photons excites electrons in chlorophyll molecules, initiating the light-dependent reactions of photosynthesis.
Photosystems I and II contain pigment molecules that absorb specific wavelengths of light within the electromagnetic spectrum.
Review Questions
Which part of the electromagnetic spectrum is primarily used in photosynthesis?
How do different pigments in plant cells interact with various wavelengths of light?
What role do excited electrons play in the context of light-dependent reactions?
Related terms
Chlorophyll: A green pigment found in plants that absorbs light most efficiently in the blue and red parts of the electromagnetic spectrum.
Photosystems: Complexes within chloroplasts that contain pigment molecules and are essential for capturing light energy during photosynthesis.
Photon: A particle representing a quantum of light or other electromagnetic radiation which can excite electrons during photosynthesis.