Halobacterium has a photosynthetic membrane that is colored purple. Its photosynthetic action spectrum is exactly complementary (opposite to)the action spectrum for green plants. What wavelengths of light do the Halobacterium photosynthetic pigments absorb?
A) red and yellow
B) blue, green, and red
C) green and yellow
D) red and green
E) blue and red

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Halobacterium's purple photosynthetic membrane suggests that its pigments primarily absorb blue and red wavelengths of light. This is opposite to the pigments found in green plants, which absorb primarily blue and red wavelengths but reflect green, giving them their characteristic color. Therefore, choice E, blue and red, is the most appropriate selection.

Halobacterium Has a Photosynthetic Membrane That Is Colored Purple