Question

Autoradiography technique was used to

• A. trace the path of carbon in photosynthesis
• B. establish that the oxygen evolved during phtosynthesis is by photolysis of water molecule.
• C. study photorespiration in certain plants.
• D. find out the absorption maximum of chlorophyll pigments.

Answer 1

The correct option is A trace the path of carbon in photosynthesis

The Calvin cycle was discovered by Calvin, Benson and their colleagues in California, U.S.A. They fed Chlorella and Scenedesmus with radioactive ${}^{14}$C in carbon dioxide. Radio­active carbon, 14${}^C$ has a half-life of 5568 years. Therefore, the path of CO${}_2$ fixation during photosynthesis can be easily traced with its help.

So, the correct option is 'trace the path of carbon in photosynthesis'.