Final answer:
Red beets contain betanin, red cabbage contains anthocyanins, and yellow corn contains zeaxanthin. Beta-carotene is a pigment found in orange vegetables; while not present in beets or red cabbage, it has important roles in plant health and human nutrition.
Step-by-step explanation:
Red beets, red cabbage, and yellow corn are colorful vegetables that contain different types of pigments. The pigment responsible for the red color in beets is betanin, not beta-carotene. Red cabbage contains a variety of pigments including anthocyanins, which give it its characteristic color. Yellow corn, however, does contain a carotenoid known as zeaxanthin, which contributes to its yellow hue. Beta-carotene is another type of carotenoid predominantly found in orange-hued vegetables like carrots.
Carotenoids, including beta-carotene and zeaxanthin, play important roles in plant health, as they are involved in absorbing excess energy during photosynthesis and protecting plants from damage. Additionally, carotenoids are known for their health benefits in humans, including possible roles in cancer prevention and eye health, thanks to their antioxidant properties.