Answer :
Final answer:
The metabolic intermediate of the light-independent reactions in photosynthesis is 3-phosphoglycerate (3-PGA). This molecule is crucial in the Calvin cycle, following the fixation of carbon dioxide. Other options like ATP and NADPH are involved in the process but are not intermediates of the Calvin cycle.
Explanation:
Metabolic Intermediate in the Light-Independent Reactions
In photosynthesis, the light-independent reactions, also known as the Calvin cycle, utilize various metabolic intermediates. One critical intermediate that is formed during these reactions is 3-phosphoglycerate (3-PGA). This molecule is produced after the fixation of CO₂ and serves as a precursor for the formation of glucose and other carbohydrates.
Overview of Compounds
- ATP - An energy carrier produced in light-dependent reactions, not a metabolic intermediate in the Calvin cycle.
- PGA (3-PGA) - A metabolic intermediate that is crucial in the Calvin cycle following the carbon fixation step.
- RuBP - Ribulose bisphosphate is a substrate that initiates the Calvin cycle but is not a product.
- NADPH - Like ATP, it is an energy carrier and reducing agent, not a direct product of the reactions.
Therefore, among the options provided, 3-PGA is indeed the correct choice as it is directly involved in the metabolic processes of the light-independent reactions.
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