Question

The rate of photosynthesis is highest in

• A. Red light
• B. Blue light
• C. Green light
• D. Polychromatic light

Answer 1

The correct option is D

Polychromatic light

The correct option is D.

Explanation of the correct option:

1. The process of photosynthesis is highly dependent on light and occurs in the visible light spectrum.
2. Chlorophylls absorb light at both ends of the visible spectrum, that is blue and red light.
3. As photosynthesis occurs at all wavelengths of the visible spectrum, its rate is highest in polychromatic light, that is white light, which is a combination of different wavelengths.

Explanation of the incorrect option:

Option A:

In monochromatic red light, the rate of photosynthesis is maximum, but less when compared to that in polychromatic light.

Option B:

In monochromatic blue light, the rate of photosynthesis is lesser than that in red light.

Option C:

Chlorophyll reflects away green light; hence, the rate of photosynthesis is minimum in green light.

Final Answer: The rate of photosynthesis is highest in polychromatic light.