Question
Question: Which of the following ions of heavy metals participate in the process of photosynthesis in higher p...
Which of the following ions of heavy metals participate in the process of photosynthesis in higher plants?
A. Pb, Fe, Ni, Co
B. Mg, Zn, Cu, Hg
C. Mg, Mn, Co, Fe
D. Mg, Cu, Mn, Fe
Solution
Plants and other organisms transform light energy into chemical energy. Light is captured and used in many ways such as to convert water, carbon dioxide, and minerals into oxygen and energy-rich organic compounds.
Complete answer:
Some heavy metals such as copper (Cu), iron (Fe) are essential in trace amounts for metabolic activities in plants. If they are found in excess amounts they damage chloroplasts and distribute photosynthesis.
-Mg has a central atom which helps chlorophyll which is supporting the function to absorb sunlight and to maintain the structure of chlorophyll. Mg also helps to trap light energy in photosynthesis. It acts as a phosphorus carrier in plants. And it is also essential for phosphate metabolism.
-Iron ( Fe ) plays a crucial role in electron transfer reactions including photosynthesis and nitrogen assimilation. It plays an important role in DNA synthesis, respiration and synthesis of the chloroplast, and maintenance of chloroplast structure and function. It is helpful in oxygen transport.
-Cu helps in the production of fruit flowers. It helps in maintaining the pH. It assists the plant metabolism of carbohydrates and proteins. Cu is directly involved in the photosynthetic electron transport chain as a constituent of plastocyanin.
-Mn triggers enzymes to activate during photosynthesis especially during the photolysis of water to release oxygen. Mn initiates chlorophyll to work through Fe.
Hence, the correct answer is Option D
Note: Cobalt (Co) it is a transitional element. It shows the effect of the growth and metabolism of plants.it causes morphological damage and changes in chlorophyll contents. Lead block cellular mitosis, affecting the growth of roots and stems, and in leaves it disrupts photosynthesis. Mercury reduces the elongation of primary roots and also reduces photosynthesis, transpiration rate, and water uptake, and chlorophyll synthesis.