Biological Science (6th Edition)
Biological Science (6th Edition)
6th Edition
ISBN: 9780321976499
Author: Scott Freeman, Kim Quillin, Lizabeth Allison, Michael Black, Emily Taylor, Greg Podgorski, Jeff Carmichael
Publisher: PEARSON
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Chapter 10, Problem 1TYK

In antenna complexes, how is energy transferred among the pigment molecules?

a. by heat

b. by redox reactions

c. by fluorescence

d. by resonance

Expert Solution & Answer
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Summary Introduction

Introduction:

Antenna complexes, also known as the light-harvesting complexes, are protein and pigment complexes present in thylakoid membrane of plants that transfer the electrons to the electron acceptor at the photosynthetic reaction center.

Answer to Problem 1TYK

Correct answer:

By resonance.

Explanation of Solution

Explanation/Justification for the correct answer:

Option (d) is given by resonance. The light-sensitive molecules are also called chromophores. The antenna complex pigments absorb the photons from the incoming solar radiation, which then transfers the associated energy to the nearby chlorophyll molecule. This results in the excitation of another electron. Hence, option (d) is correct.

Explanation for incorrect answers:

Option (a) is given as by heat. The heat energy from the incoming solar radiation is not absorbed by the chromophore molecule (antenna complex); thus, it cannot transfer the heat energy for the excitation of the electron in the chlorophyll. So, it is a wrong answer.

Option (b) is given as redox reactions. The redox reactions involve the transfer of energy by the transfer of the electrons and the fluorescence energy transfer involves the transfer of the light energy. So, it is a wrong answer.

Option (c) is given as fluorescence. Furthermore, it is not responsible for the excitation of the electron in the chlorophyll as a result of the transfer of energy from the antenna complex. So, it is a wrong answer.

Hence, options (a), (b), and (c) are incorrect.

Conclusion

The mechanism of transfer of the energy among the molecules that are light sensitive is referred to as resonance or fluorescence resonance energy transfer.

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