Write the differences between C3 and C4 cycles

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Solution

C3 CYCLE C4 CYCLE
C3 cycle is found in almost all the plants C4 cycle is found in only C4 plants like sorgham and maize.
The first stable compound produced in C3 cycle is a three carbon compound, 3 phosphoglyceric acid. The first stable compound produced is a four carbon compond, Oxaloacetic acid.
The primary carbon dioxide acceptor is a five carbon compound Ribulose bi phosphate. The primary carbon dioxide acceptor is a three carbon compound phosphoenol pyruvate.
Photosynthesis takes place in mesophyll cells, at average temperature of 20 to 25 degree celcius. photosynthesis takes place in both mesophyll and bundle sheath cells at 30 to 45 degree celcius.
Less efficient in utilizing carbon dioxide. High efficiency in utilizing carbon dioxide.
Can be saturated with sunlight. Does not saturate with sunlight.
The fixation of sinle carbon molecule requires 3 ATP and 2 NADH The fixation of sinle carbon molecule requires 5 ATP and 3 NADH.
Chloroplasts are monomorphic Chloroplasts are dimorphic
Perform photosynthesis only when stromata are open Perform photosynthesis even when stromata are closed.
Low water use efficiency. Comparitively high water use efficiency.

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