Topic 3.6.1 :Photosynthesis and Plant Nutrition

These flashcards cover key concepts related to photosynthesis, plant nutrition, and experimental methods to test various components essential for the process.

What is photosynthesis?

Photosynthesis is the fundamental process by which plants manufacture simple sugars from raw materials using light energy, chlorophyll, water, and carbon dioxide, with oxygen as a by-product.

What is the word equation for photosynthesis?

The word equation for photosynthesis is: Carbon dioxide + Water → Glucose + Oxygen.

Why is chlorophyll essential for photosynthesis?

Chlorophyll is essential for photosynthesis because it absorbs light energy needed to convert carbon dioxide and water into glucose.

How can you test for starch in leaves?

To test for starch, boil the leaf to kill it, place it in ethanol to remove chlorophyll, then immerse it in iodine solution. A blue-black coloration indicates the presence of starch.

What does a variegated leaf test indicate about chlorophyll?

A variegated leaf will show blue-black coloration only in the green areas where chlorophyll is present, indicating that chlorophyll is needed for photosynthesis and starch production.

What are limiting factors in photosynthesis?

Limiting factors are environmental conditions in short supply that restrict life processes, such as light intensity, carbon dioxide concentration, temperature, and water availability.

What happens to the rate of photosynthesis as light intensity increases?

As light intensity increases, the rate of photosynthesis also increases until it reaches an optimum level, after which any further increase in light does not increase the rate.

What is the role of temperature in photosynthesis?

Temperature affects the rate of photosynthesis; most plants function best between 20°C and 35°C, and excessive heat can denature enzymes involved in the process.

How can carbon dioxide enrichment affect plant productivity in greenhouses?

Carbon dioxide enrichment can increase plant productivity by maintaining higher concentrations of carbon dioxide, which enhances the rate of photosynthesis.

What is the significance of oxygen production during photosynthesis?

Oxygen is released as a by-product of photosynthesis, which is essential for the respiration of aerobic organisms and for maintaining atmospheric oxygen levels.