Question

Which one of the following is an important component of chlorophyll?

• A. Mn
• B. Mg
• C. Fe
• D. Zn

Hint:

Magnesium is the central atom in chlorophyll, and it is essential for photosynthesis by absorbing light energy.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

Chlorophyll is a vital pigment found in plants, responsible for the process of photosynthesis. It allows plants to absorb light, primarily in the blue and red wavelengths, and convert it into chemical energy. The structure of chlorophyll includes a porphyrin ring, similar to the heme group found in hemoglobin, but with a central metal ion that differs.

The central metal ion in chlorophyll is magnesium (Mg). This magnesium ion is crucial for the proper functioning of chlorophyll as it helps to stabilize the structure and allows for efficient absorption of light, thereby playing an essential role in the process of photosynthesis.

Given the options:

• Mn - Manganese is essential for plant processes but is not a component of chlorophyll.
• Mg - Correct. Magnesium is the central metal ion in chlorophyll.
• Fe - Iron is vital in other plant processes, including chlorophyll synthesis, but not a component of chlorophyll itself.
• Zn - Zinc is also an essential nutrient but not a constituent of chlorophyll.

Therefore, among the given options, Mg (Magnesium) is the important component of chlorophyll.

Answer 2

Chlorophyll, the green pigment found in plants, is crucial for the process of photosynthesis. The central atom in chlorophyll is magnesium (Mg), which is coordinated to the porphyrin ring structure. This magnesium ion plays a key role in absorbing light energy during photosynthesis. 

- Mn (Manganese): While manganese is involved in photosynthesis, it is a part of the water-splitting complex in the light reaction, not in the chlorophyll structure. 
- Fe (Iron): Iron is important in electron transport and other enzymatic processes, but it is not the central atom in chlorophyll. 
- Zn (Zinc): Zinc is involved in various enzymatic reactions, but it does not play a role in the chlorophyll molecule. 

Thus, the correct answer is Magnesium (Mg).