Question

The alternative pathways of photosynthesis using the C4 or CAM systems are said to be compromises. Why?

• A. Each one minimizes both water loss and rate of photosynthesis.
• B. C4 compromises on water loss and CAM compromises on photorespiration.
• C. Each one both minimizes photorespiration and optimizes the Calvin cycle.
• D. CAM plants allow more water loss, while C4 plants allow less CO2 into the plant.

Answer 1

The correct option is C

Each one both minimizes photorespiration and optimizes the Calvin cycle.

Photorespiration (also known as the oxidative photosynthetic carbon cycle, or C2 photosynthesis) is a process in plant metabolism which attempts to reduce the consequences of a wasteful oxygenation reaction by the enzyme RuBisCO