Chlorophyll and Carotenoid Absorption Spectra Explained #2173112 (License: Personal Use)

The chart displays the relative light absorption of three key photosynthetic pigments across the visible spectrum (400-700 nm). Chlorophyll a shows strong peaks near 430 nm (blue) and 662 nm (red); chlorophyll b absorbs more in blue (~453 nm) and orange (~642 nm); carotenoids peak in blue-green (~450-500 nm), extending protection and accessory light harvesting. These absorption profiles explain why plants appear green-they reflect green light least absorbed by these pigments.

Used in biology, botany, and environmental science educational content to illustrate photosynthetic pigment function; matches user intent for learning how plants capture light energy or preparing academic materials on photosynthesis.