CDS 2026 (I) General Knowledge, question 5

Topic: Biology

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Q5

Which one of the following is not a function of the pigment carotenoid ?

  1. (a) Responsible for yellow-orange hues of autumnal leaves
  2. (b) Protecting chlorophyll from photo-oxidation
  3. (c) Photoprotective role in our eyes
  4. (d) Reaction centre in the pigment systemCorrect answer

Solution.

Answer: (d) Reaction centre in the pigment system

  1. The reaction centres of the two photosystems contain special chlorophyll a molecules, P700 and P680.
  2. Carotenoids are accessory and protective pigments; they contribute yellow-orange colours, limit photo-oxidative damage and include pigments that protect the retina.