Which of the following is not an input for the Calvin cycle?

Prepare for the Mississippi State Biology 1 Exam with flashcards and multiple choice questions. Each question offers hints and explanations to help you get ready for your exam!

The Calvin cycle, also known as the light-independent reactions or dark reactions of photosynthesis, primarily utilizes the inputs of NADPH, ATP, and carbon dioxide to synthesize organic molecules, particularly glucose.

NADPH serves as a reducing agent, donating electrons that help convert carbon dioxide into glucose, while ATP provides the necessary energy for the reactions that take place in this cycle. Carbon dioxide is the fundamental substrate that, through a series of reactions, is ultimately transformed into glucose.

Glucose, however, is not an input for the Calvin cycle; rather, it is one of the products produced at the end of the cycle. The cycle's purpose is to fix carbon dioxide from the atmosphere into a stable form that can eventually be transformed into glucose through subsequent metabolic processes. Thus, recognizing that glucose is produced and not consumed during the Calvin cycle clarifies why it does not belong with the other inputs such as NADPH, ATP, and carbon dioxide.

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