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Multiple Choice
What is the 3-carbon molecule that serves as an energy storage compound during the Calvin cycle?
A
Glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate (G3P)
B
Acetyl-CoA
C
Lactic acid
D
Pyruvate
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the context of the Calvin cycle, which is a part of photosynthesis occurring in the chloroplasts of plant cells. It involves the fixation of carbon dioxide into organic molecules.
Recognize that the Calvin cycle produces a 3-carbon sugar molecule that can be used to form glucose and other carbohydrates, which are essential for energy storage and plant growth.
Identify the key 3-carbon molecule produced in the Calvin cycle. This molecule is known as Glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate (G3P), which is a direct product of the cycle and can be used to regenerate ribulose bisphosphate or to synthesize glucose.
Differentiate Glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate (G3P) from other 3-carbon molecules such as Acetyl-CoA, Lactic acid, and Pyruvate, which are involved in different metabolic pathways like glycolysis and the citric acid cycle.
Conclude that Glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate (G3P) is the correct 3-carbon molecule serving as an energy storage compound during the Calvin cycle, as it is directly involved in the synthesis of carbohydrates.