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Chloroplast — accessory pigments
publish date: 2026/06/16 20:56:48.571591 UTC
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In addition to chlorophyll, chloroplasts also contain other pigments, particularly the yellow and orange ones. What are these called?
Correct Answer
carotenoids
Explanation
In addition to chlorophyll, chloroplasts contain carotenoids — the yellow and orange accessory pigments. These include carotenes (orange) and xanthophylls (yellow). Carotenoids assist in capturing light energy across a broader range of the spectrum and protect the chlorophyll from photo-oxidative damage. They become visible in autumn leaves as chlorophyll breaks down.
Reference
Biology: A Self-Teaching Guide