Chlorophyll a

Definition

Chlorophyll a is a primary photosynthetic pigment found in plants, algae, and cyanobacteria. It plays a crucial role in absorbing light energy for the light-dependent reactions of photosynthesis.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Chlorophyll a absorbs light most efficiently in the blue-violet and red parts of the electromagnetic spectrum.
2. It is essential for the conversion of solar energy into chemical energy during photosynthesis.
3. The molecular formula for chlorophyll a is C55H72MgN4O5.
4. Chlorophyll a is involved in the photolysis of water, leading to the release of oxygen.
5. It serves as the reaction center pigment in both Photosystem I and Photosystem II.

Review Questions

• What are the primary colors of light absorbed by chlorophyll a?
• Why is chlorophyll a important for the light-dependent reactions of photosynthesis?
• In which photosystems does chlorophyll a serve as the reaction center pigment?

Related terms

Photosystem I:

A protein complex in thylakoid membranes that uses light energy to produce NADPH.

Photosystem II:

A protein complex in thylakoid membranes that uses light energy to drive water splitting and ATP formation.

Photolysis:

The process by which water molecules are split using light energy during photosynthesis, releasing oxygen.