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Date May 2019 Marks available 1 Reference code 19M.3.hl.TZ1.11
Level HL Paper 3 Time zone TZ1
Command term Suggest Question number 11 Adapted from N/A

Question

Carotenoids are pigments found in leaves.

The absorption spectrum of β-carotene is shown below.

Explain its colour in terms of its absorption bands. Use section 17 of the data booklet.

[2]
a.

The absorption spectrum of chlorophyll a is shown below.

Suggest how the combination of chlorophyll a and carotenoids is beneficial for photosynthesis.

[1]
b.

Markscheme

400–424 «nm» absorption band/violet AND 424–490 «nm» absorption band/blue    [✔]

complementary/opposite colour observed
OR
yellow/orange observed    [✔]

 

Note: Accept “400–500 «nm» absorption band” for M1.

a.

extends energy absorption spectrum «for photosynthesis»    [✔]

b.

Examiners report

Very few candidates scored the first mark. Two absorption bands were required but most candidates only mentioned one. However, most candidates scored the second mark for stating the colour of β-carotene.

a.

Most candidates gave good answers to suggest how a combination of chlorophyll a and carotenoids is beneficial for photosynthesis.

b.

Syllabus sections

Options » B: Biochemistry » B.9 Biological pigments (HL only)
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Options » B: Biochemistry
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