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The two isotopes used to trace carbon and oxygen in photosynthesis studies are

(a) ¹⁴C and ¹⁸O Correct
(b) ¹⁶O and ¹⁵N Your answer
(c) ¹⁵N and ³²P Your answer
(d) ¹¹C and ³²P Your answer

Your answer: Correct answer: (a)

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Explanation

Why (a) is correct

¹⁴C (radioactive) was used by Calvin to trace the path of carbon, and ¹⁸O was used to show that the O₂ released comes from water.

Why the other options are wrong

(b) · your answer ¹⁵N is used in nitrogen studies, not to trace carbon or oxygen in photosynthesis.
(c) · your answer ¹⁵N and ³²P are used for nitrogen and phosphorus, not carbon and oxygen.
(d) · your answer ¹¹C and ³²P were not the isotopes used in these classic studies.

NCERT point: Isotopes act as tracers: their path through a process can be followed.

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