MCAT Physics Practice Question – Radiation Absorption
- by
- Jan 01, 2021
- MCAT Blog, MCAT Question of the Day
- Reviewed By: Liz Flagge
Absorption of radiation corresponding to what portion of the electromagnetic spectrum is most likely to excite Aequorea fluorophore, a green fluorescent protein used in biological experiments?
A. Ultraviolet
B. Infrared
C. Orange
D. Microwave
Explanation
Fluorescence is the emission of a lower-energy photon from a fluorophore excited by the prior absorption of a higher-energy photon. With this in mind, the Aequorea fluorophore must be excited by the absorption of a photon of higher energy (and frequency) than that associated with green visible light. Of the choices listed, only ultraviolet light, choice A, is of higher energy than green light. Even if we were not considering the green fluorescence of this organism, we could simply choose the highest-energy radiation as that which is most likely to promote fluorescence in general, making A the correct answer.
B. Infrared: incorrect. Photons corresponding to the infrared and microwave portions of the electromagnetic spectrum, as well as those corresponding to orange visible light, are of lower energy than those comprising green visible light.
C. Orange; incorrect. Photons corresponding to the infrared and microwave portions of the electromagnetic spectrum, as well as those corresponding to orange visible light, are of lower energy than those comprising green visible light.
D. Microwave; incorrect. Photons corresponding to the infrared and microwave portions of the electromagnetic spectrum, as well as those corresponding to orange visible light, are of lower energy than those comprising green visible light.
Want more MCAT practice?
We’ve got options for every schedule and learning style!
From the best online MCAT course created by top instructors with 524+ MCAT scores to the most representative full-length practice exams and private tutoring, we can custom tailor your MCAT prep to your goals!
Not sure which option is right for you? Schedule a free MCAT consultation with an MCAT expert using the form below. No obligation, just expert advice.
Create your Free Account to access our MCAT Flashcards
Search the Blog
Free Consultation
Interested in our Online MCAT Course, One-on-One MCAT Tutoring or Med admissions packages? Set up a free consultation with one of our experienced Senior Student Advisors.
Schedule NowPopular Posts
-
MCAT Blog What's on the MCAT?
-
MCAT Blog How to Review MCAT Full Lengths

Free MCAT Practice Account
Need great MCAT practice?Get the most representative MCAT practice possible when you sign up for our free MCAT Account, which includes a half-length diagnostic exam and one of our full-length MCAT practice exams.
Learn More