Chlorophyll is a green pigment found in almost all plants, algae, and cyanobacteria. Its name is derived from the Greek words chloros, meaning "green," and phyllon, meaning "leaf." Chlorophyll is essential in photosynthesis, the process by which plants use sunlight to convert carbon dioxide into organic compounds that support plant growth. In addition to its role in photosynthesis, chlorophyll also helps to protect plants from damage by absorbing harmful ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun.
Chlorophyll molecules are large and complex, consisting of a nitrogen-containing center (called a porphyrin ring) surrounded by a chain of carbon atoms. At the center of the porphyrin ring is a magnesium atom. This unique structure gives chlorophyll the ability to absorb light in the violet-blue and red regions of the visible spectrum.
Plants are not the only organisms that contain chlorophyll. Many types of bacteria, including cyanobacteria, also have this pigment. In bacteria, chlorophyll is used in a process called bacteriochlorophyll, which is similar to photosynthesis but does not produce oxygen gas.
While chlorophyll is best known for its ability to absorb sunlight and convert it into energy, this pigment also has other important functions in plants. For example, chlorophyll helps plants to absorb nitrogen from the air and to produce carbon-based molecules that plants need for growth. Chlorophyll also gives plants their green color.
The green color of chlorophyll absorbs light in the blue and red regions of the visible spectrum, which are the regions of the spectrum that plants use for photosynthesis. Chlorophyll reflects green light, which is why plants appear green to us.
The amount of chlorophyll in a plant can vary depending on the plant's stage of growth, the time of year, the amount of light available, and other factors. For example, leaves often contain more chlorophyll in the spring and early summer when they are actively growing and there is more sunlight available for photosynthesis. Leaves typically contain less chlorophyll in the fall, when they are preparing for winter dormancy.
If you have ever eaten a leaf, you may have noticed that it can leave a greenish tint on your teeth. This is because chlorophyll is water-soluble, meaning that
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is chlorophyll Quizlet?
Chlorophyll Quizlet is a collection of quizzes on all things chlorophyll. It includes questions about photosynthesis, the pigment structure, and its function in plants.
What is the function of chlorophyll pigment?
The chlorophyll molecule contains two smaller subunits, called chlorophyll a and chlorophyll b. Together, they form a rod-like structure that sits in the cell's cytoplasm. Chlorophyll a and b are green because they contain a lot of the electron-transport molecule pigment pheophytin. The pigment grabs photons from light and liberates their energy to fuel photosynthesis (occurring almost exclusively in cells that need to produce oxygen for respiration).
Where is chlorophyll found in plants and algae?
Chlorophyll is found in the cells of plants and algae.
Is chlorophyll E found in all organisms?
No, chlorophyll E is found only in some golden algae.
What is the role of chlorophyll in photosynthesis Quizlet?
Chlorophyll is a pigment within the chloroplasts that absorbs light energy for photosynthesis. Chloroplasts are found in plant leaves surrounded by guard cells.
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