Photosynthesis and Ecology

Flashcards about Photosynthesis in Plants

Photosynthesis

The process by which plants make their own food using light energy.

Photo

Comes from the Greek language, meaning light.

Synthesis

Comes from the Greek language, meaning putting together.

Raw materials for Photosynthesis

Carbon dioxide and water from the air and the soil.

Energy source for Photosynthesis

Sunlight

Location of Photosynthesis

Takes place in plant cells within chloroplasts.

Chloroplasts

Contain chlorophyll, a green chemical that absorbs energy from sunlight.

Products of Photosynthesis

Glucose and oxygen.

Glucose

A product of photosynthesis used by plants.

Oxygen

A waste product of photosynthesis released into the air.

Photosynthesis Word Equation

Carbon dioxide + Water -> Glucose + Oxygen (using light energy and chlorophyll)

Chemical formula of Glucose

C6H12O6

Carbon Dioxide Chemical Formula

CO2

Water Chemical Formula

H2O

Oxygen Chemical Formula

O2

Leaves

Efficient solar panels that absorb light energy for photosynthesis.

Leaf Structure Adaptations for Photosynthesis

Wide and flat shape for large surface area, thinness for easy gas exchange, stomata for gas movement, veins for water and glucose transport, and chlorophyll for light absorption.

Factors Affecting the Rate of Photosynthesis

Light intensity, carbon dioxide concentration, and temperature.

Effect of Light Intensity on Photosynthesis

More light energy means faster photosynthesis, but too much light can damage plant cells.

Effect of Carbon Dioxide on Photosynthesis

More carbon dioxide means more photosynthesis, leading to quicker plant growth.

Effect of Temperature on Photosynthesis

Enzymes control photosynthesis and work best at warmer temperatures. Too high temperatures can denature the enzymes and stop photosynthesis.

Uses of Glucose

Used for energy, stored as starch, used to make proteins and other organic substances, and changed to sucrose for transport.

Respiration

Process by which cells obtain energy from glucose.

Starch

Storage form of glucose; made into granules and stored inside chloroplasts.

Nitrogen

Nutrient from the soil needed by plants to make proteins.

Sucrose

Complex sugar used to transport glucose to other parts of the plant.

Iodine

Used to test for the presence of starch. A blue-black color indicates starch is present.

Positive Starch Test result

Black/blue iodine

Negative Starch Test result

Orange/brown iodine