Question

How many molecules of carbon dioxide are required in the Calvin cycle to produce 3 molecules of glucose?

(a) 9

(b) 18

(c) 6

(d) 15

The question was asked in an international level competition.

The above asked question is from Higher Plants Photosynthesis topic in chapter Photosynthesis in Higher Plants of Biology – Class 11

Answer 1

The correct choice is (b) 18

The explanation is: To make one molecule of glucose six molecules of carbon dioxide are required. Hence, six cycles of the Calvin cycle are required. To make three molecules of glucose, 18 molecules of carbon dioxide are required.