Spectroscopy and Molecular Absorption (4D) Practice Test

A molecule exhibits an allowed electronic absorption at $\lambda_{\max}=520\ \text{nm}$ in hexane. When measured in water, the absorption maximum shifts to 540 nm without a major change in peak intensity. Which statement is most consistent with how molecular environment can affect absorption spectra?

A heme protein is monitored by UV–Vis spectroscopy in a 1.00 cm path length cuvette. In the deoxygenated state, it shows a Soret-band absorption maximum at 430 nm. After oxygenation, the maximum shifts to 415 nm with comparable bandwidth. Which conclusion is most consistent with molecular absorption in this biological context?