The Question is from neet-botany , and it was created by the author Mr. NARESH KUMAR K

Question

A mutation affects a plant's ability to synthesize carotenoids.  Which of the following would be the MOST LIKELY consequence for photosynthesis under high light intensity?

Mr. NARESH KUMAR K · Accepted Answer

## CORE INFORMATION
✓ **Answer**: [B]
## CONCEPT FRAMEWORK
	**Primary Concept**: Role of Carotenoids in Photosynthesis
	**Related Topics**: Photosynthesis, Light-Dependent Reactions, Photoinhibition, Photoprotection
	**Prerequisites**: Basic understanding of photosynthesis, light absorption by pigments, and the role of carotenoids.
## SOLUTION PATHWAY
**Given Information**:
	* Mutation impairs carotenoid synthesis.
	* Condition: High light intensity.
**Method & Steps**:
	1. **Understand Carotenoid Function**: Carotenoids are accessory pigments in photosynthesis that absorb light energy and transfer it to chlorophyll. They also play a crucial role in photoprotection by dissipating excess light energy as heat, preventing damage to chlorophyll and photosystems under high light conditions.
		Reasoning: Carotenoids act as antioxidants, preventing the formation of reactive oxygen species that can damage cellular components.
	2. **Analyze the Effect of Mutation**: If carotenoid synthesis is impaired, the plant will be more vulnerable to photoinhibition. Under high light, chlorophyll will absorb more energy than can be used in photosynthesis, leading to the formation of reactive oxygen species and damage to the photosynthetic machinery.
		Reasoning:  Without sufficient carotenoids, excess light energy cannot be effectively dissipated.
	3. **Determine the Consequence**: The most likely consequence will be increased damage to chlorophyll and photosystems.
		Result: Increased damage to chlorophyll and photosystems due to excessive light energy.
 ## OPTION ANALYSIS
[A] :x: Enhanced light absorption and increased photosynthetic rate. - Incorrect. Without carotenoids, there is no enhanced absorption rather, there is reduced protection and damage.
[B] ✓: Increased damage to chlorophyll and photosystems due to excessive light energy. - Correct. This aligns with the role of carotenoids in photoprotection.
[C] :x: No significant change in photosynthetic rate or chlorophyll integrity. - Incorrect. Carotenoids are crucial for photoprotection under high light. 
[D] :x: Shift in the absorption spectrum towards longer wavelengths. - Incorrect. Carotenoids primarily absorb in the blue-green region of the spectrum, and a lack of them would not shift the spectrum in this way.
 ## LEARNING AIDS
	**Common Mistakes**:
		1. Confusing absorption with protection: Students might think that without carotenoids, chlorophyll will absorb more light, increasing photosynthesis. However, the main role of carotenoids is photoprotection.
		2. Ignoring the effect of high light intensity: High light conditions are a key factor, as they increase the need for photoprotection.
	**Quick Tips**:
		1. Remember that carotenoids are photoprotective, like a sunscreen for the plant.
		2. Focus on the keywords in the question: 'carotenoids', 'high light', and 'photosynthesis'.

Mr. NARESH KUMAR K · Answer

Enhanced light absorption and increased photosynthetic rate.

Mr. NARESH KUMAR K · Answer

The correct Option is "Increased damage to chlorophyll and photosystems due to excessive light energy."

Mr. NARESH KUMAR K · Answer

No significant change in photosynthetic rate or chlorophyll integrity.

Mr. NARESH KUMAR K · Answer

Shift in the absorption spectrum towards longer wavelengths.

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