Why might the alternative pathways of photosynthesis using C₄ or CAM systems be described as metabolic compromises?
A) Both pathways increase the rate of photosynthesis but also increase the rate of water loss.
B) The CAM pathway allows more CO₂ into the plant but also increases the rate of water loss.
C) The C₄ pathway decreases water loss but also increases the rate of photorespiration.
D) Both pathways minimize photorespiration but also expend more ATP during carbon fixation.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Both C₄ and CAM pathways minimize photorespiration, which is beneficial in hot and dry environments, but they require more ATP to fix carbon, making them energy-intensive processes.

Why Might the Alternative Pathways of Photosynthesis Using C₄ or CAM