Question

Path of carbon in photosynthesis was found by using

• A. Centrifugation
• B. Radio isotopes
• C. Fractionation
• D. Chromatography

Answer 1

Answer: (B)

Radio isotopes

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 B.