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Multiple Choice
Which three-carbon carbohydrate exits the Calvin cycle and is utilized in the synthesis of glucose and sucrose?
A
Fructose-6-phosphate
B
Dihydroxyacetone phosphate (DHAP)
C
Ribulose-1,5-bisphosphate (RuBP)
D
Glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate (G3P)
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 role of Glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate (G3P): G3P is a three-carbon sugar phosphate molecule that is a key intermediate in the Calvin cycle. It is produced during the cycle and can be used to synthesize glucose and other carbohydrates.
Recognize the structure of G3P: G3P is a three-carbon molecule with the chemical formula C₃H₇O₆P. It contains an aldehyde group, which is important for its role in carbohydrate synthesis.
Differentiate G3P from other molecules: Compare G3P with other molecules mentioned, such as Fructose-6-phosphate, Dihydroxyacetone phosphate (DHAP), and Ribulose-1,5-bisphosphate (RuBP). Note that G3P is the only three-carbon molecule directly involved in the synthesis of glucose and sucrose.
Conclude the role of G3P in carbohydrate synthesis: G3P exits the Calvin cycle and serves as a building block for the synthesis of glucose and sucrose, making it a crucial molecule in the process of photosynthesis.