- A Fatty acid chains assembled by the plastid-localized fatty acid synthase complex
- B Terpenoids (isoprene, carotenoids, diterpenes) for photosynthesis and plant defense
- C Free amino acids synthesized via nitrogen assimilation in the chloroplast stroma
- D Starch granules deposited and stored within the chloroplast stroma
Correct answer: B. Terpenoids (isoprene, carotenoids, diterpenes) for photosynthesis and plant defense
Explanation: MEP pathway (methylerythritol phosphate/non-mevalonate pathway) in plastids produces IPP and DMAPP, precursors for carotenoids, chlorophylls, gibberellins, and isoprene.
Concept context
Light reactions, the Calvin cycle, C3/C4/CAM pathways, photorespiration, and factors affecting the rate of photosynthesis. One of the highest-yield NEET chapters.