Question

The energy rich compound generated during photosynthesis is
A. ADP
B. ATP
C. AMP
D. All of the above

Answer 1

Photosynthesis is a process in which green plants capture light energy and transform it into the chemical energy which is the energy currency of a cell. Plants utilize this chemical energy for production of oxygen and glucose from water and carbon dioxide respectively.

Complete answer:
Photosynthesis reaction occurs in two steps: first is the “light” reaction which involves photochemical reaction and the second is “dark” reaction which comprises enzyme controlled chemical reactions. First step involves absorption of the light energy which aids in transfer of electrons through various complexes resulting in formation of energy rich compounds, namely ATP (adenosine triphosphate) and NADPH (nicotine adenine dinucleotide phosphate). Second step involves reduction of carbon dioxide into organic carbon compounds with the help of energy rich compounds (ATP and NADPH) which were formed during light reaction.
ADP and AMP are not directly generated during the photosynthesis process. ATP is converted to ADP by releasing inorganic phosphate. This reaction involves breaking of bond which is associated with release of 7.3 kilocalories per mole = 30.6 kJ/mol energy. ATP can also be converted into AMP by release of two phosphates which will eventually result in release of additional energy. These reactions involve bond breaking; hence it is an exothermic reaction.
The correct answer is option “B” that is ATP is the energy rich compound generated during photosynthesis.

Note: ATP is also known as the energy currency of a cell. It supplies energy for numerous life processes. Energy rich compounds (ATP, NADPH) which are formed during the light phase of the photosynthesis are utilized for carbon fixation in the dark phase of reaction.