plant nutrition

state the word equation for photosynthesis

carbon dioxide + water → glucose + oxygen

define photosynthesis

Photosynthesis is the process by which plants synthesise carbohydrates from carbon dioxide and water, using energy from light.

define chlorophyll, its purpose and where it comes from.

• Chlorophyll is a green pigment

• Found in chloroplasts

• It absorbs light energy and transfers it into chemical energy for making carbohydrates

what are the uses of glucose made in photosynthesis

1. Converted to starch → energy storage

2. Converted to cellulose → cell wall formation

3. Used in respiration → releases energy

4. Converted to sucrose → transported in the phloem

5. Converted to nectar → attracts insects for pollination

what are the mineral ions present during photosynthesis

nitrate ions and magnesium ions

what are nitrate ions needed for?

• Used to make amino acids

• Needed to make proteins

• Deficiency → poor growth

what are magnesium ions needed for?

to make chlorphyll

deficiency→ yellow leaves (chlorosis)

what is the balanced chemical equation for photosynthesis?

6CO_2 + 6H_2O —> C_6H_{12}O_6 + 6O_2