Join thousands of students who trust us to help them ace their exams!Watch the first video
Multiple Choice
In the context of organic chemistry reactions, what is the primary purpose of the reduction phase in the Calvin cycle?
A
To fix carbon dioxide into an organic molecule
B
To convert 3-phosphoglycerate into glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate
C
To produce ATP and NADPH
D
To regenerate ribulose-1,5-bisphosphate
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the Calvin cycle: The Calvin cycle is a series of biochemical reactions that take place in the chloroplasts of photosynthetic organisms. It is part of the process of photosynthesis and is responsible for converting carbon dioxide and other compounds into glucose.
Identify the phases of the Calvin cycle: The Calvin cycle consists of three main phases: carbon fixation, reduction, and regeneration. Each phase has a specific role in the synthesis of carbohydrates.
Focus on the reduction phase: The reduction phase is the second phase of the Calvin cycle. During this phase, ATP and NADPH, produced in the light-dependent reactions, are used to convert 3-phosphoglycerate (3-PGA) into glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate (G3P).
Chemical transformation in the reduction phase: In this phase, each molecule of 3-phosphoglycerate receives a phosphate group from ATP and is then reduced by NADPH to form glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate. This is a key step in the synthesis of carbohydrates.
Purpose of the reduction phase: The primary purpose of the reduction phase is to convert 3-phosphoglycerate into glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate, which can then be used to form glucose and other carbohydrates, providing energy and carbon skeletons for the plant.