Which wavelength of light is most effectively absorbed by chlorophyll?

Chlorophyll is a pigment crucial for photosynthesis, and it primarily absorbs light in specific wavelengths to drive this process. The most effective absorption of light by chlorophyll occurs around 660 nm, which falls within the red region of the light spectrum. At this wavelength, chlorophyll molecules are particularly efficient at capturing light energy, which is essential for converting sunlight into chemical energy.

This absorption efficiency is due to the structure of chlorophyll and its ability to resonate with light at this wavelength, allowing for maximum energy uptake. While other wavelengths, such as those close to 485 nm (blue) or 500 nm (green), can also be partially absorbed, they are not utilized as effectively as red light in the photosynthetic process. Hence, the selection of 660 nm as the wavelength most effectively absorbed by chlorophyll highlights the importance of red light in aiding plant growth and energy production through photosynthesis.