Question

In root nodules of legumes, the role of leghemoglobin is

• A. To transports oxygen to root nodules
• B. To act as an oxygen scavanger
• C. To act as a catalyst in transamination
• D. To provide energy to nitrogen fixing bacteria

Answer 1

The correct option is B To act as an oxygen scavanger

Atmospheric nitrogen is not available to the plants. Nitrogen fixing bacteria converts atmospheric nitrogen into ammonium compounds and make it available to the plants. There are two types of bacteria, free-living and symbiotic. Example of free living nitrogen fixing bacteria include Azotobacter. The example of symbiotic nitrogen fixing bacteria includes Rhizobium. Rhizobium lives in symbiotic association with the legume plants in the root nodules and fixes atmospheric nitrogen. Root nodules of legume plants contains leghaemoglobin. This acts as an oxygen scavanger.

Thus, the correct answer is 'Acts as an oxygen scavanger.'