Chlorophyll — Science definition
The green pigment inside chloroplasts that absorbs light energy — mostly red and blue light — to power photosynthesis.
Where it is taught
- Photosynthesis — Matter & Energy in Living Systems, Life Science: Biology, Grade 10
In use
Studded through the thylakoid membranes is chlorophyll, the pigment that does the light-catching.
Photosynthesis
Questions using chlorophyll
Problem 1
Leaves look green because chlorophyll
- produces a green-colored sugar
- reflects every color of light equally
- absorbs red and blue light and reflects green light
- absorbs green light and reflects red light
Answer and explanation
absorbs red and blue light and reflects green light
Chlorophyll absorbs mostly red and blue wavelengths to power photosynthesis and reflects green light back to our eyes, which is why plants look green.
Problem 2
Leaves appear green because chlorophyll
- absorbs green light strongly
- reflects green light while absorbing red and blue
- converts all light to green
- contains green carbon
Answer and explanation
reflects green light while absorbing red and blue
Chlorophyll absorbs red and blue wavelengths efficiently and reflects green, which is why green is the colour that reaches our eyes.