In leaf cells, which pigment traps light energy for photosynthesis?

In leaf cells, which pigment traps light energy for photosynthesis?

• A. Starch
• B. Chlorophyll
• C. Water
• D. Cellulose

Answer: (B)

Chlorophyll is the pigment that traps light energy in leaf cells. It sits in the chloroplasts and absorbs light—especially blue and red wavelengths—and uses that energy to drive the light-dependent reactions of photosynthesis. Starch is a stored carbohydrate, not a pigment, so it doesn’t capture light. Water is a reactant that provides electrons when split during photosynthesis, not a light-absorbing pigment. Cellulose is a structural carbohydrate in cell walls, not involved in capturing light energy. Chlorophyll is the molecule responsible for catching light energy.

Chlorophyll is the pigment that traps light energy in leaf cells. It sits in the chloroplasts and absorbs light—especially blue and red wavelengths—and uses that energy to drive the light-dependent reactions of photosynthesis. Starch is a stored carbohydrate, not a pigment, so it doesn’t capture light. Water is a reactant that provides electrons when split during photosynthesis, not a light-absorbing pigment. Cellulose is a structural carbohydrate in cell walls, not involved in capturing light energy. Chlorophyll is the molecule responsible for catching light energy.