Some carotenoids protect chlorophyll from intense light by:
Correct answer: D. Both absorbing and dissipating excessive light energy
- A. Absorbing excessive light energy
- B. Dissipating excessive light energy
- C. Transferring excessive light energy to chlorophyll a
- D. Both absorbing and dissipating excessive light energy
Explanation
Option D is correct because carotenoids protect chlorophyll by both absorbing and dissipating excessive light energy as heat. This dual function helps prevent the formation of harmful free radicals that can damage cellular components, including DNA. Options A and B are partially correct because they individually describe parts of the carotenoids' protective mechanism, but only together do they encompass the full protective role. Option C is incorrect because carotenoids do not transfer excessive light energy to chlorophyll a; rather, they manage it to prevent damage.
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