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Multiple Choice
Why are C3 plants named as such in the context of organic chemistry?
A
They have a three-carbon compound as the first stable product of photosynthesis.
B
They utilize a three-step process in carbon fixation.
C
They contain three carbon atoms in their glucose molecules.
D
They have three types of chlorophyll pigments.
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the context of C3 plants in photosynthesis. C3 plants are named based on the first stable product formed during the Calvin cycle, which is a three-carbon compound.
Recognize that the Calvin cycle is the process of carbon fixation in C3 plants. The first stable product formed is 3-phosphoglycerate (3-PGA), a three-carbon molecule.
Clarify that the term 'C3' refers specifically to the three-carbon compound, 3-PGA, which is the first stable product of carbon fixation in these plants.
Note that the process involves three main steps: carbon fixation, reduction phase, and regeneration of ribulose bisphosphate (RuBP), but the name 'C3' is derived from the three-carbon compound produced.
Understand that the naming is not related to the number of carbon atoms in glucose molecules or the types of chlorophyll pigments, but specifically to the three-carbon compound formed during photosynthesis.