Answer :
Final answer:
The compound that is a metabolic intermediate of the light-independent reactions in photosynthesis is PGA (3-phosphoglycerate). It is formed when carbon dioxide is fixed with RuBP and is vital for the synthesis of carbohydrates. Therefore, PGA is an essential intermediate in the Calvin cycle.
Explanation:
Metabolic Intermediates in Photosynthesis
The light-independent reactions, also known as the Calvin cycle, occur in the stroma of chloroplasts and are responsible for the fixation of carbon dioxide, ultimately producing carbohydrates. During this process, one of the key metabolic intermediates is PGA (3-phosphoglycerate).
Here’s how it fits into the overall cycle:
- Carbon dioxide is fixed by the enzyme Rubisco into a 5-carbon sugar, RuBP (ribulose bisphosphate), forming a 6-carbon intermediate that quickly splits into two molecules of PGA.
- PGA is then phosphorylated by ATP and reduced by NADPH to eventually form glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate (G3P), which is a precursor for glucose and other carbohydrates.
Thus, among the options provided, PGA is the correct answer, as it serves as a critical intermediate in the light-independent reactions.
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