2025 IGCSE - Plant Nutrition

Photosynthesis

Process in which plants manufacture carbohydrates from raw materials using energy from light

Water + Carbon Dioxide

Glucose + Oxygen

Nitrate Ions

Source of nitrogen that plays a key role in making amino acids

Magnesium Ions

Central component in chlorophyll molecules

Chlorophyll

Transfers light energy into chemical energy molecules

What are carbs produced during photosynthesis used for?

Immediate energy, structural support and storage

Palisade Mesophyll

Contain many chloroplasts

Stomata

Allow gas exchange

Spongy Mesophyll

Have spaces to allow gasses to move

Guard Cells

Control the opening and closing of the stomata

They don't open up at night as there is no sunlight

Xylem

Transport water and dissolved minerals

Pholem

Transport sugars and organic compounds