Name: Photosynthesis Mechanism, a Complex Process in Plants
Uploaded: 2019-07-19
Duration: 12 min 27 s
Description: The complex process of photosynthesis is explained. The two phases, the light and dark reaction, are described as well as the chlorophyll and other pigment systems.

Question

Name the two important enzymes of C3 and C4 pathway, respectively? What important role do they play in fixing CO₂?

Accepted Answer

The two essential enzymes of C3 and C4 pathway are RuBisCo and PEPcase, respectively. RuBisCo is the primary CO₂ acceptor in C3 plants, while PEPcase is the primary CO₂ acceptor in C4 plants.
Role of RuBisCo: RuBisCo is also called RUBP Carboxylase/Oxygenase. This enzyme has more affinity towards carbon dioxide than towards oxygen. However, some of this enzyme binds to oxygen in C3 plants through a process called photorespiration. Photorespiration is a wasteful process because it does not create any useful product for the plants and also reduces carbon fixation in C3 plants.
Role of PEPcase: PEPcase binds with carbon dioxide to produce a 4-carbon compound oxaloacetic acid (OAA). However, RuBisCo is also present in these plants. OAA is eventually converted into carbon dioxide. Carbon dioxide finally enters the Calvin cycle, and produces carbohydrate. It is important to remember that the Calvin Cycle is common in both C3 and C4 plants.

Name the two important enzymes of C3 and C4 pathway, respectively? What important role do they play in fixing CO₂?

Important Questions on Photosynthesis in Higher Plants

Learn and Prepare for any exam you want !

Name the two important enzymes of C3 and C4 pathway, respectively? What important role do they play in fixing CO2?

Important Questions on Photosynthesis in Higher Plants

Learn and Prepare for any exam you want !

Name the two important enzymes of C3 and C4 pathway, respectively? What important role do they play in fixing CO₂?