Plant Nutrition – Photosynthesis

Vocabulary flashcards summarizing the essential terms and definitions related to the photosynthesis section of the Plant Nutrition lecture.

Photosynthesis

The process by which green plants manufacture carbohydrates (glucose/starch) from carbon dioxide and water using light energy absorbed by chlorophyll; oxygen is released as a by-product and the reaction occurs in the leaves.

Chlorophyll

The green pigment in plant leaves that absorbs light energy required to drive photosynthesis.

Word Equation for Photosynthesis

Carbon dioxide + Water —(light energy, chlorophyll)→ Glucose + Oxygen.

Glucose

The main carbohydrate produced during photosynthesis; can be converted into starch for storage.

Oxygen (photosynthetic by-product)

The gas released during photosynthesis when water molecules are split, serving as a by-product of the process.

Leaves

The primary plant organs where photosynthesis takes place, containing large amounts of chlorophyll.

Carbon Dioxide

An atmospheric gas absorbed by plants through stomata; it is a raw material for photosynthesis.

Light Energy

Solar energy captured by chlorophyll that powers the chemical reactions of photosynthesis.

Water

A raw material absorbed by plant roots and transported to leaves, supplying hydrogen atoms for glucose formation during photosynthesis.