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IB Biology HL 1.3.4 Photosynthetic pigment separation Question Bank

Practise IB Biology HL 1.3.4 by linking pigment solubility and TLC movement to separated bands, Rf values and pigment identification.

Syllabus
First assessment 2025
Course
Biology HL
Level
HL

Exam points

  • Explain how pigment solubility and movement through a TLC plate produce separated bands and diagnostic Rf values.
  • Interpret chromatograms and compare Rf values with standards to identify pigments and judge solvent separation.

C1.3.4—Photosynthetic pigment separation question 1

[Maximum number: 1]

In water, shorter wavelengths of light such as blue and green penetrate deepest, and longer wavelengths of light penetrate less far. Red light does not reach depths of more than 50 m . Marine algae live at various water depths. Certain species of algae contain the pigments that enable them to adapt to life at different depths.

The graphs show the absorption and action spectra for two species of algae: Ulva taeniata, which is green, and Porphyra nereocystis, which is red.

Figure for Question C1.3.4—Photosynthetic pigment separation question 1 — IB Biology HL

Absorption / \%

Figure for Question C1.3.4—Photosynthetic pigment separation question 1 — IB Biology HL
Figure for Question C1.3.4—Photosynthetic pigment separation question 1 — IB Biology HL

State the method used to separate photosynthetic pigments in a leaf extract.

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