Q20 / 120 · NEET 2011 (Mains) · Botany

Which one of the following is essential for photolysis of water?

  • Correct answer
    A
    Manganese
  • B
    Zinc
  • C
    Copper
  • D
    Boron

Solution

Photolysis of water requires light energy, and oxygen evolving complex (OEC) and an electron carrier $Y_z$. OEC complex was formerly called Z-enzyme. It has four Mn ions. Light energy brings about changes in $\mathrm{Mn}\left(\mathrm{Mn}^{+2}, \mathrm{Mn}^{+3}, \mathrm{Mn}^{+4}\right)$ which helps in removing electrons from $\mathrm{OH}^{-}$ component of water forming oxygen. Liberation of oxygen also requires $\mathrm{Cl}^{-}$and $\mathrm{Ca}^{2+}$.

Hence, the correct answer is option: 'A'.

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