What color light is primarily absorbed by chlorophyll in healthy plants?

Prepare for the BASF Plant Science Certification Exam. Study using flashcards and multiple choice questions; each question includes hints and explanations. Ace your exam effortlessly!

Healthy plants primarily absorb red and blue light for photosynthesis, utilizing these wavelengths effectively to drive the process of converting light energy into chemical energy. Chlorophyll, the key pigment in plants, has specific absorption characteristics: it absorbs light most efficiently in the blue range (around 430-450 nm) and in the red range (around 640-680 nm).

In contrast, chlorophyll reflects green light, which is why plants often appear green to our eyes. This selective absorption is vital for plant growth and energy production, as the absorbed light energy is used to power the photosynthetic reactions that ultimately produce glucose and oxygen.

Understanding the absorption spectrum of chlorophyll is crucial for grasping how plants harness light energy. Red and blue wavelengths are essential for effective photosynthesis, while the reflection of green light indicates that this wavelength is not utilized, resulting in the plant's characteristic color.

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