Which element is located at the centre of the porphyrin ring in chlorophyll?
- Calcium
- Magnesium
- Potassium
- Manganese
Answer
(2) Magnesium
Solution
Chlorophyll molecule = a porphyrin (tetrapyrrole) head + a phytol tail.
⇒ The four nitrogen atoms of the porphyrin ring hold a single metal atom at the centre, which is magnesium (Mg).
∴ Magnesium is located at the centre of the porphyrin ring of chlorophyll.
Answer: (2)