Question

Path of carbon assimilation can be traced with the help of

• A. Chromatography.
• B. Electrophoresis.
• C. Radioisotopes.
• D. Fractionation.

Answer 1

The correct option is C Radioisotopes.

Calvin cycle is used for the fixation of carbon dioxide to produce glucose. Radioactive isotopes of carbon (C-14) and phosphorus (P-32) was used to trace the path for the carbon assimilation. A photosynthesizing plant does not strongly discriminate between the most abundant natural carbon isotope C-12 and C-14. During photosynthesis in the presence of 14 $C{O}_2$, the compounds formed become labeled with the radioisotope.

So, the correct answer is option C.