ENVS200-wk1.2

What is photosynthesis?

Photosynthesis is the process by which green plants and some other organisms convert light energy into chemical energy stored in glucose.

What is the role of chlorophyll in photosynthesis?

Chlorophyll is a pigment in plants that absorbs light energy, primarily from the sun, enabling photosynthesis to occur.

What are the raw materials needed for photosynthesis?

The raw materials needed for photosynthesis are carbon dioxide, water, and sunlight.

What is the main product of photosynthesis?

The main product of photosynthesis is glucose (sugar), which serves as food for the plant.

What gas is released during photosynthesis?

Oxygen is released as a byproduct of photosynthesis.

What are the two stages of photosynthesis?

The two stages of photosynthesis are the light-dependent reactions and the light-independent reactions (Calvin cycle).

Where does photosynthesis occur in plant cells?

Photosynthesis occurs in the chloroplasts of plant cells.

How does carbon dioxide enter the leaves of plants?

Carbon dioxide enters the leaves of plants through tiny openings called stomata.

What is the significance of photosynthesis to ecosystems?

Photosynthesis is crucial for ecosystems as it produces oxygen and serves as the base of the food chain.

How do light-dependent reactions differ from the Calvin cycle?

Light-dependent reactions convert solar energy into chemical energy (ATP and NADPH), while the Calvin cycle uses that energy to synthesize glucose from carbon dioxide.

What is the chemical equation for photosynthesis?

The chemical equation for photosynthesis is 6CO₂ + 6H₂O + light energy → C₆H₁₂O₆ + 6O₂.

What organisms perform photosynthesis?

Photosynthesis is primarily performed by green plants, algae, and some bacteria.

What role does sunlight play in photosynthesis?

Sunlight provides the energy necessary for photosynthesis to occur.

What is the function of the stomata in a leaf?

Stomata are openings on the leaf surface that allow for gas exchange (CO₂ in and O₂ out).

What is chloroplast's structure?

Chloroplasts have a double membrane, thylakoid membranes, and stroma where photosynthesis occurs.

What is the Calvin cycle?

The Calvin cycle is the light-independent stage of photosynthesis that synthesizes glucose.

What is photophosphorylation?

Photophosphorylation is the process of generating ATP using sunlight during the light-dependent reactions.

What is the importance of NADPH in photosynthesis?

NADPH is an energy carrier that provides reducing power for the Calvin cycle.

How do plants store energy produced through photosynthesis?

Plants store energy as starch, which can be broken down when needed.

What is the role of water in photosynthesis?

Water provides electrons and protons for the formation of glucose during photosynthesis.

What factors affect the rate of photosynthesis?

Factors include light intensity, carbon dioxide concentration, temperature, and water availability.

What is the role of RuBisCO in photosynthesis?

RuBisCO is an enzyme that catalyzes the fixation of carbon dioxide in the Calvin cycle.

What is the photosynthetic efficiency of plants?

Photosynthetic efficiency varies but generally ranges from 1-5% in most plants.

How is photosynthesis important for the food web?

Photosynthesis produces organic matter that serves as food for herbivores and, subsequently, carnivores.

What is the difference between C3 and C4 photosynthesis?

C3 plants fix carbon dioxide directly, while C4 plants have a special mechanism to concentrate CO₂, making photosynthesis more efficient in hot climates.

What is the relationship between respiration and photosynthesis?

Photosynthesis produces glucose and oxygen, while respiration uses them to generate energy, producing CO₂ and water.

How does light intensity influence photosynthesis?

Increased light intensity up to a certain point can enhance the rate of photosynthesis.

What are the light-dependent reactions?

The light-dependent reactions convert light energy into chemical energy (ATP and NADPH) in the chloroplasts.

What are the byproducts of the light-dependent reactions?

The byproducts of the light-dependent reactions are oxygen and ATP.

What do plants do with the glucose produced during photosynthesis?

Plants use glucose for energy, growth, and as a building block for other molecules.