Which is the major photosynthetic pathway in plants

Options

A. `C_(3)`
B. `C_(4)`
C. `CAM`
D. None of the above.

Answer

**Step-by-Step Solution:**

1. **Understanding Photosynthesis**: Photosynthesis is the process by which plants convert light energy into chemical energy, primarily in the form of glucose. This process involves two main stages: the light reactions and the dark reactions (Calvin Cycle).

2. **Light Reactions**: The light reactions occur in the thylakoid membranes of the chloroplasts, where light energy is absorbed, oxygen is released, and high-energy molecules like ATP and NADPH are produced.

3. **Dark Reactions (Calvin Cycle)**: The dark reactions, also known as the Calvin Cycle, take place in the stroma of the chloroplasts. This is where the ATP and NADPH generated in the light reactions are used to synthesize glucose from carbon dioxide.

4. **Types of Photosynthetic Pathways**: There are three major types of photosynthetic pathways:
- **C3 Cycle**: This is the most common pathway and is referred to as the Calvin Cycle. It occurs in the majority of plants and is considered the universal pathway for photosynthesis.
- **C4 Cycle**: This pathway is found in certain plants that have adapted to high light intensity and temperatures. C4 plants can perform both the C3 and C4 cycles.
- **CAM (Crassulacean Acid Metabolism)**: This pathway is found in xerophytic plants that have adapted to arid conditions. CAM plants also utilize the C3 cycle along with a modified version of the C4 cycle.

5. **Conclusion**: The major photosynthetic pathway in plants is the C3 cycle, also known as the Calvin Cycle, which is universal among all plants.

**Final Answer**: The major photosynthetic pathway in plants is the C3 cycle (Calvin Cycle).

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