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What is the overall equation for photosynthesis?
6 CO2 + 6 H2O + light energy → C6H12O6 + 6 O2.
What is the main pigment involved in photosynthesis?
Chlorophyll.
Where does photosynthesis primarily occur in plant cells?
In the chloroplasts, specifically within the mesophyll tissue of leaves.
What are the two main stages of photosynthesis?
Light-dependent reactions and the Calvin cycle (light-independent reactions).
What product is released as a byproduct during the light reactions of photosynthesis?
Oxygen (O2).
What are the main phases of the Calvin cycle?
Carbon fixation, reduction, and regeneration of ribulose bisphosphate (RuBP).
Which enzyme catalyzes the first step of carbon fixation in the Calvin cycle?
RuBisCO.
What types of light do chlorophyll pigments absorb?
Primarily violet, blue, and red light.
How does light intensity affect the rate of photosynthesis?
As light intensity increases, the rate of photosynthesis increases until a saturation point is reached.
What is the C-4 pathway?
A pathway where CO2 is initially fixed into a 4-carbon compound (oxaloacetate) before entering the Calvin Cycle, allowing for more efficient photosynthesis in hot, dry climates.
What is the role of stomata in photosynthesis?
Stomata are microscopic pores on leaves that allow CO2 to enter and O2 to exit, facilitating gas exchange essential for photosynthesis.
What happens during the light-dependent reactions?
Light energy is absorbed by chlorophyll, water is split releasing oxygen, and ATP and NADPH are produced.
What is a key benefit of photosynthesis in ecosystems?
It provides the primary source of energy for nearly all ecosystems through the production of glucose.
What do carotenoids do in photosynthesis?
Carotenoids are accessory pigments that absorb light in the violet, blue, and green wavelengths, enhancing light capture.
How many times must the Calvin cycle turn to produce one glucose molecule?
Six times, utilizing six CO2 molecules.
What is the importance of photosynthesis in regulating atmospheric gases?
Photosynthesis helps regulate atmospheric CO2 levels and produces oxygen, which is vital for aerobic organisms.
What is photosynthesis' effect on climate change?
It contributes to the carbon cycle by converting atmospheric CO2 into organic matter, thus helping to mitigate climate change.
What are the differences between non-cyclic and cyclic pathways in photosynthesis?
Non-cyclic pathways produce both ATP and NADPH, while cyclic pathways produce only ATP.
What are the two main types of chlorophyll?
Chlorophyll A and Chlorophyll B.
How does temperature affect photosynthesis?
Photosynthesis rates increase with temperature up to an optimal point; extreme heat can denature enzymes involved in the process.
What is the function of ATP in the Calvin cycle?
ATP provides the energy required to convert 3-phosphoglycerate (PGA) into glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate (G3P).
What pigments reflect green light, making leaves appear green?
Chlorophyll reflects green light while absorbing other wavelengths.
What is the role of water in photosynthesis?
Water acts as a reactant in the light-dependent reactions, being split to provide electrons and protons, and releasing oxygen.
What is photolysis in photosynthesis?
Photolysis is the process of splitting water molecules using light energy during the light-dependent reactions.
What is NADPH and its function in photosynthesis?
NADPH is an electron carrier produced in the light reactions that provides reducing power for the Calvin cycle.
What factors can limit the rate of photosynthesis?
Light intensity, carbon dioxide concentration, and temperature can all limit the rate of photosynthesis.
What is the significance of ribulose bisphosphate (RuBP) in the Calvin cycle?
RuBP is the 5-carbon molecule that combines with CO2 during carbon fixation to initiate the Calvin cycle.
How does carbon dioxide concentration affect photosynthesis?
Increased CO2 concentration typically enhances the rate of photosynthesis until other factors become limiting.
What adaptations do plants in arid environments have for photosynthesis?
Many have adaptations like CAM (Crassulacean Acid Metabolism) that allow them to fix carbon dioxide at night.
What is the function of chloroplasts in plant cells?
Chloroplasts are organelles where photosynthesis occurs, containing chlorophyll and other pigments.
What are the main products of photosynthesis?
The main products are glucose (C6H12O6) and oxygen (O2).
What is the relationship between photosynthesis and cellular respiration?
Photosynthesis produces glucose and oxygen, which are used in cellular respiration to produce energy (ATP).
How do seasons affect photosynthesis in plants?
Seasonal changes in light availability and temperature can influence the rate of photosynthesis, affecting plant growth.
What is the importance of green plants in carbon sequestration?
Green plants absorb CO2 during photosynthesis, helping to reduce greenhouse gases and mitigate climate change.
What role do roots play in photosynthesis?
Roots absorb water and nutrients from the soil, which are essential for photosynthesis.
What are the differences between C3 and C4 photosynthesis?
C3 photosynthesis involves the direct fixation of CO2 into a 3-carbon compound, while C4 photosynthesis initially fixes CO2 into a 4-carbon compound to minimize photorespiration.
What is the light saturation point in photosynthesis?
The light saturation point is the light intensity at which the rate of photosynthesis reaches its maximum and further increases in light do not increase the rate.
How does water availability affect photosynthesis?
Limited water availability can cause stomata to close, reducing CO2 intake and ultimately slowing the rate of photosynthesis.
What is the function of xylem in relation to photosynthesis?
Xylem transports water and nutrients from the roots to the leaves, supporting the photosynthesis process.
What is photorespiration?
Photorespiration is a process that occurs when oxygen is consumed and CO2 is released, typically reducing the efficiency of photosynthesis.
What is the significance of thylakoid membranes in photosynthesis?
Thylakoid membranes host the light-dependent reactions of photosynthesis, where light energy is converted into ATP and NADPH.
How do temperature fluctuations impact photosynthesis?
Temperature fluctuations can affect enzyme activity involved in photosynthesis, leading to variations in its rate.
What is the role of phosphorus in photosynthesis?
Phosphorus is a key element in ATP and nucleic acids, which are vital for energy transfer and genetic information during photosynthesis.
What is the significance of shade tolerance in plants regarding photosynthesis?
Shade-tolerant plants have adaptations that allow them to perform photosynthesis efficiently in low light conditions.
