Answer: Carotenoids.
- A Carotenoids
- B Chlorophyll a
- C Chlorophyll b
- D Phycocyanins
Correct answer: A. Carotenoids
Explanation: Carotenoids (carotenes and xanthophylls) absorb extra wavelengths and shield chlorophyll from photo-oxidation.
Simplified photosynthesis diagram: light energy, CO2, and H2O enter the leaf and are converted in the chloroplast into glucose and O2.
Concept context
Light reactions, the Calvin cycle, C 3 /C 4 /CAM pathways, photorespiration, and factors affecting the rate of photosynthesis. One of the highest-yield NEET chapters.