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About This Simulation
Help Roxy figure out if a mysterious dark algae is able to do photosynthesis using green light and measure this process with the Hill reaction.
Learning Objectives
- Understand properties of light and why pigments are colorful
- Develop a hypothesis and set up an experiment to test it
- Understand how to measure the redox potential of the electron transport chain
- Interpret absorption spectra
About This Simulation
Lab Techniques
- Hill reaction
- Spectrophotometry
Related Standards
- No direct alignment
- Supports Biology Unit 2: Cell structure and function
- Biology 2.9 Photosynthesis
Learn More About This Simulation
This short, targeted simulation is adapted from the full-length “Electron Transport Chain” simulation.
Find out if a dark colored algae can help with biofuel production. In this simulation, you will help Roxy, the lead engineer in an environmental project, find out if a dark colored algae can do photosynthesis using green light. Use the Hill reaction and spectrophotometry to measure electron flow and find out if the pigments in the algae can use green light for photosynthesis.
Introduction to the Hill reaction
How can we measure the energy generated by photosynthesis? The process of photosynthesis uses an electron transport chain. By measuring the electron flow using the Hill reaction we can know the energy produced by photosynthesis. This reaction uses DCPIP, a redox dye, to measure the electron flow. Now we know the theory we can start our experiment!
Prepare the experimental controls
Our handy virtual assistant Dr. One has already extracted pigments from the algae for you! Now, to check out if the pigments can use green light for photosynthesis. In order to properly test your hypothesis, you will need to prepare and measure your sample, as well as positive and negative controls. Look at the absorption spectra from previous experiments to choose the correct wavelength of light for the spectrophotometer to measure your samples.
Measure photosynthesis
By comparing the absorbance of your pigment sample exposed to green light only in the spectrophotometer to those of the controls, you will be able to figure out if the dark algae are able to perform photosynthesis using green light or not. Will your hypothesis about the dark algae pigments be correct?
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FAQs
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A Labster virtual lab is an interactive, multimedia assignment that students access right from their computers. Many Labster virtual labs prepare students for success in college by introducing foundational knowledge using multimedia visualizations that make it easier to understand complex concepts. Other Labster virtual labs prepare learners for careers in STEM labs by giving them realistic practice on lab techniques and procedures.
Labster’s virtual lab simulations are created by scientists and designed to maximize engagement and interactivity. Unlike watching a video or reading a textbook, Labster virtual labs are interactive. To make progress, students must think critically and solve a real-world problem. We believe that learning by doing makes STEM stick.
Yes, Labster is compatible with all major LMS (Learning Management Systems) including Blackboard, Canvas, D2L, Moodle, and many others. Students can access Labster like any other assignment. If your institution does not choose an LMS integration, students will log into Labster’s Course Manager once they have an account created. Your institution will decide which is the best access method.
Labster is available for purchase by instructors, faculty, and administrators at education institutions. Purchasing our starter package, Labster Explorer, can be done using a credit card if you are located in the USA, Canada, or Mexico. If you are outside of North America or are choosing a higher plan, please speak with a Labster sales representative. Compare plans.
Labster supports a wide range of STEM courses at the high school, college, and university level across fields in biology, chemistry, physics, and health sciences. You can identify topics for your courses by searching our Content Catalog.