Question

Which of the following statements about RuBisCO is true?

• A. It has higher affinity for oxygen than carbon dioxide.
• B. It is an enzyme involved in the photolysis of water.
• C. It catalyzes the carboxylation of RuBP.
• D. It is active only in the dark.

Hint:

RuBisCO = Calvin cycle = CO2 fixation.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

RuBisCO (Ribulose-1,5-bisphosphate carboxylase/oxygenase) functions as the central enzyme in the Calvin cycle (photosynthesis's dark phase). This enzyme facilitates CO2 fixation by attaching it to RuBP (ribulose-1,5-bisphosphate). Although RuBisCO can react with oxygen (leading to photorespiration), its affinity for CO2 is greater under typical conditions. It does not participate in the photolysis of water, a process confined to the light-dependent reactions.