Plants primarily absorb light in the blue (around 400-500 nm) and red (around 600-700 nm) regions of the electromagnetic spectrum. The pigments in plants, particularly chlorophyll a and chlorophyll b, are most efficient at absorbing light in these wavelengths.
- Blue light (approximately 430-450 nm): This is highly effective for photosynthesis and promotes vegetative growth.
- Red light (approximately 640-680 nm): This light is also very effective for photosynthesis and is important for flowering and fruiting.
Green light (around 500-550 nm) is largely reflected, which is why plants appear green to our eyes. While plants can also use some green light, they do not absorb it as efficiently as blue and red light.
In summary, blue and red wavelengths of light are the most effectively absorbed by plants for photosynthesis.
1 answer