A LevelBiologyCambridge (CIE)Revision Notes13. PhotosynthesisPhotosynthesis as an Energy Transfer ProcessChloroplast Pigments

Chloroplast Pigments (Cambridge (CIE) A Level Biology): Revision Note

Exam code: 9700

Phil

Written by: Phil

Reviewed by: Alistair Marjot

Updated on

Chloroplast pigments

  • Chloroplasts contain several different photosynthetic pigments within the thylakoids, which absorb different wavelengths of light

Pigment group

Name of pigment

Colour of pigment

Chlorophylls

Chlorophyll a

Light green

Chlorophyll b

Dark green

Carotenoids

β carotene

Orange

Xanthophyll

Yellow

  • Chlorophylls absorb wavelengths in the blue-violet and red regions of the light spectrum

    • They reflect green light, causing plants to appear green

  • Carotenoids absorb wavelengths of light mainly in the blue-violet region of the spectrum

Examiner Tips and Tricks

Remember—the pigments themselves have colours, which are the colours of the visible light spectrum that they reflect (back into our eyes). This is different from the colours of light that they absorb.

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    Author
    Reviewer
    Phil

    Author: Phil

    Expertise: Biology Content Creator

    Phil has a BSc in Biochemistry from the University of Birmingham, followed by an MBA from Manchester Business School. He has 15 years of teaching and tutoring experience, teaching Biology in schools before becoming director of a growing tuition agency. He has also examined Biology for one of the leading UK exam boards. Phil has a particular passion for empowering students to overcome their fear of numbers in a scientific context.

    Alistair Marjot

    Reviewer: Alistair Marjot

    Expertise: Environmental Systems and Societies & Biology Content Creator

    Alistair graduated from Oxford University with a degree in Biological Sciences. He has taught GCSE/IGCSE Biology, as well as Biology and Environmental Systems & Societies for the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme. While teaching in Oxford, Alistair completed his MA Education as Head of Department for Environmental Systems & Societies. Alistair has continued to pursue his interests in ecology and environmental science, recently gaining an MSc in Wildlife Biology & Conservation with Edinburgh Napier University.