Answer :
Final answer:
The metabolic intermediate of the light-independent reactions in photosynthesis is 3-phosphoglycerate (PGA). It is formed when ribulose bisphosphate (RuBP) combines with carbon dioxide during the Calvin cycle. Other options, such as ATP and NADPH, serve different roles but are not intermediates like PGA is.
Explanation:
Metabolic Intermediates of the Light-Independent Reactions
In the context of photosynthesis, particularly the light-independent reactions (also known as the Calvin cycle), several metabolites play crucial roles. One of the key compounds produced during these reactions is 3-phosphoglycerate (PGA).
The light-independent reactions utilize carbon dioxide and energy-rich molecules generated in the light-dependent reactions (ATP and NADPH) to convert CO2 into sugars. The sequence starts with ribulose bisphosphate (RuBP), which reacts with CO2 to produce PGA. PGA is subsequently converted into glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate (G3P) and can eventually form glucose and other carbohydrates.
To clarify, the following options can be evaluated:
- ATP: This is an energy currency of the cell but not a direct metabolic intermediate.
- PGA: This is indeed a metabolic intermediate of the light-independent reactions.
- RuBP: While important, it is not an intermediate but a substrate in the initial stage of the Calvin cycle.
- NADPH: This serves as a reducing agent but is not a metabolic intermediate in the Calvin cycle itself.
Thus, the correct answer to the question "Which compound is a metabolic intermediate of the light-independent reactions in photosynthesis?" is PGA.
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