Question

Autoradiography technique has not been used for

• A. Tracing maximum absorption of chlorophyll.
• B. Tracing path of carbon in photosynthesis.
• C. Studying photorespiration.
• D. Trace evolution of oxygen during photolysis of water.

Answer 1

The correct option is A Tracing maximum absorption of chlorophyll.

Calvin used ${}^{14}$C isotope of carbon to trace the path of carbon in photosynthesis. Using technique of autoradiography, Calvin found that ${}^{14}$C turned up in glucose molecules.
Photorespiration was also studied using the technique of autoradiography.
The whole dark reaction (including photolysis of water), i.e., the path of carbon was worked by Calvin using the methods of radioactive tracer technique, chromatography and autoradiography.