The outcome of the Calvin Cycle is
A)synthesis of sugars
B)Production of pyruvate
C)Capture of energy from sunlight
D)Breakdown of complex molecules and the subsequent release of energy
http://www.bio.umass.edu/biology/conn.river/calvin.html
The correct answer is A) synthesis of sugars. The Calvin Cycle is a series of chemical reactions that occur in the chloroplasts of plants and other photosynthetic organisms. Its main purpose is to convert carbon dioxide (CO2) into glucose, a sugar molecule that can be used for energy and to build other organic compounds. The cycle is named after Melvin Calvin, who discovered the reactions involved in the process.
To arrive at the correct answer, one can use basic knowledge of photosynthesis and the steps involved in the Calvin Cycle. Understanding the function of the cycle helps in eliminating options B, C, and D.
Option B, production of pyruvate, is associated with glycolysis, which is a series of reactions occurring in the cytoplasm, not in the chloroplasts where the Calvin Cycle takes place.
Option C, capture of energy from sunlight, refers to the process of photosynthesis as a whole, but the capture of energy from sunlight occurs during the light-dependent reactions, which are separate from the Calvin Cycle.
Option D, breakdown of complex molecules and the subsequent release of energy, is more closely related to cellular respiration, where organic molecules are broken down to release energy, typically in the form of ATP. This process is not part of the Calvin Cycle.
In summary, knowing the key concept of the Calvin Cycle and its involvement in the synthesis of sugars helps in selecting the correct answer, A) synthesis of sugars.