Plant Biology Lectures 8–15: Photosynthesis, Transport, Nutrition & Adaptations

What are the two components of photosynthesis?

The light reactions produce ATP and NADPH, which is used in the Calvin cycle (dark reactions) to fix CO2 into sugars.

How is energy stored in organic molecules?

Energy is stored in the chemical bonds of organic molecules; 1 glucose molecule has more energy than 6 CO2 molecules.

What is the relationship between photosynthesis and respiration?

Photosynthesis converts light energy into chemical energy, while respiration breaks down glucose to release energy.

If the solution outside a cell is hypertonic, which way will water move?

Water will move out of the cell, causing the cell to shrink.

If the solution outside a cell is hypotonic, which way will water move?

Water will move into the cell, causing a plant cell to swell and a red blood cell to burst.

Was the solution outside the plant cell hypertonic or hypotonic before osmotic movement?

The solution was hypertonic; water moved out of the cell.

What are xerophytic adaptations?

Thick waxy cuticle, very reduced leaves, succulent water-filled leaves, and stomata buried in leaf crypts.

What are the roles of macronutrients in plant cells?

Macronutrients like carbon, nitrogen, phosphorus, sulfur, and magnesium are essential for growth and function.

Which nutrients are macronutrients needed in large quantities?

N, P, K, and Ca are macronutrients needed in large quantities from the soil.

What describes a fertile soil?

Fertile soil contains a range of mineral particle sizes, types, organic matter, and living biological components.

Which nutrient elements are likely to be limiting for plants?

Nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium are often limiting in soils.

What is a nutritional adaptation in plants?

Legume-Rhizobium associations provide fixed nitrogen to the plant.

Which nutrients are likely gained from carnivory in plants?

Nitrogen and phosphorus are likely gained from carnivory.

What is the role of phytochrome in plants?

Phytochrome is a photoreceptor that responds to red and far red light.

How do plants respond to light?

Plants respond to light by phototropism, regulated by auxin.

What accurately describes secondary compounds in plants?

Primary compounds are important for core metabolism, while secondary compounds are for defense and pollinator attraction.