Which statement best describes what is happening with this photosynthetic organism at hour 12?
a
It is in a drought
b
It is night time- no light
c
It is performing the light dependent reactions
d
It is early morning- dimly lit
b. It is night time- no light
Based on the given options, the statement that best describes what is happening with this photosynthetic organism at hour 12 is option b: It is night time - no light.
To determine the correct answer, we need to understand the process of photosynthesis and the different phases involved.
Photosynthesis is the process by which plants and some other organisms convert light energy into chemical energy in the form of glucose. This process occurs in two main phases: the light-dependent reactions and the light-independent reactions (also known as the Calvin cycle).
The light-dependent reactions occur in the thylakoid membranes of chloroplasts and require the presence of light. In these reactions, light energy is captured by chlorophyll and other pigments, which then energize electrons. This energy is used to generate ATP (adenosine triphosphate) and NADPH (nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate) molecules, which provide the energy and reducing power for the next phase of photosynthesis.
Now, let's evaluate the given options:
a) It is in a drought: Drought conditions do not directly affect the photosynthetic process. This statement can be ruled out.
b) It is night time - no light: The process of photosynthesis requires light energy for the light-dependent reactions to occur. If it is night time and there is no light available, the organism cannot perform photosynthesis. This statement aligns with the requirement for light in photosynthesis.
c) It is performing the light-dependent reactions: As explained earlier, the light-dependent reactions require light energy to be captured and converted into ATP and NADPH. This statement suggests that the organism is actively engaged in the light-dependent reactions.
d) It is early morning - dimly lit: This statement mentions that it is dimly lit. While some light may be present, it may not be sufficient to drive the photosynthetic process effectively. The statement does not align perfectly with the requirement for light in photosynthesis.
Based on the above evaluation, the statement that best describes what is happening with the photosynthetic organism at hour 12 is:
c) It is performing the light-dependent reactions.