Which statement best differentiates chlorophyll a from chlorophyll b?

1 views 0 helpful Updated Jul 29, 2026
Appears in NEET UG
Solution ✔ Verified
  • AChlorophyll a is the primary photosynthetic pigment, while chlorophyll b is an accessory pigment.
  • BChlorophyll a absorbs light only in the blue region, while chlorophyll b absorbs only in the red region.
  • CChlorophyll a has a methyl group (-CH3) at C-3 of the tetrapyrrole ring, while chlorophyll b has an aldehyde group (-CHO).
  • DChlorophyll a is found in PSI, and chlorophyll b is found in PSII.
Explanation

The key structural difference between chlorophyll a and chlorophyll b lies in a side chain on the porphyrin ring. Chlorophyll a has a methyl group (-CH3), while chlorophyll b has an aldehyde group (-CHO) at the C-3 position. Both are primary and accessory pigments respectively and absorb in both blue and red regions.

Was this solution helpful?
0
Practice MCQs on Photosynthesis in Higher Plants — test yourself with instant answers. Start Practising