Question

why are algae and ferns both green?
○ they each contain chlorophyll that absorbs violet-blue light and reflects green light.
○ they each contain chlorophyll that absorbs green light and reflects violet-blue light.
○ algae contain chlorophyll, and ferns contain ferredoxin that absorbs violet-blue light and reflects green light.
○ ferns contain chlorophyll, and algae contain ferredoxin that absorbs green light and reflects violet-blue light.

Explanation:

To determine why algae and ferns are green, we analyze the role of chlorophyll. Chlorophyll, present in both algae and ferns (as they are photosynthetic organisms), absorbs light in the violet - blue range of the electromagnetic spectrum and reflects green light. This reflected green light is what gives these organisms their green appearance.

• Option 1: States that both contain chlorophyll that absorbs violet - blue light and reflects green light. This matches the known properties of chlorophyll and the reason for the green color of photosynthetic organisms.
• Option 2: Claims chlorophyll absorbs green light and reflects violet - blue light, which is incorrect. If it absorbed green light, the organisms would not appear green.
• Option 3: Says ferns contain ferredoxin (ferredoxin is involved in electron transport in photosynthesis, not in giving the green color) and misrepresents the pigment in ferns. Ferns also have chlorophyll.
• Option 4: Incorrectly states algae have ferredoxin (algae have chlorophyll) and misrepresents the light absorption - reflection properties.

Answer:

A. They each contain chlorophyll that absorbs violet - blue light and reflects green light.