Photosynthesis

1. Suppose that in the chromatography procedure, beta carotenes moved to the top of the paper while chlorophyll b remained near the bottom. According to these results, which of these compounds has the greatest affinity (attraction) for the nonpolar solvent?

2. Suppose a researcher used chromatography to separate the chemicals in a mixture. She allowed the solvent to move 8 cm up the paper before terminating the procedure. After examining the spots, she found that one had moved 2 cm from the starting position. What is the Rf for this spot?

3. If a test tube with Elodea was exposed to bright light, explain what would happen to the pH of the water inside the tube and explain why.

4. If a test tube with Elodea was kept in the dark and all of the reactions of photosynthesis stopped, explain what would happen to the pH of the water inside the tube and explain why.

5. How are plant pigments involved in photosynthesis?

6. Why is it beneficial to have several different plant pigments involved in photosynthesis?