Energy Flow & Photosynthesis

These flashcards cover key concepts related to energy flow and photosynthesis, helping to reinforce definitions, processes, and important laws.

What is energy defined as in biological systems?

Energy is the capacity to do work.

What are the two main types of energy?

Kinetic energy and potential energy.

What does the First Law of Thermodynamics state?

Energy can be transformed or transferred, but cannot be created or destroyed.

What is entropy?

Entropy refers to the measure of disorder or randomness in a system.

What role does ATP play in cellular processes?

ATP is the cellular energy currency that provides energy for cellular work.

Describe the process of photosynthesis in simple terms.

Autotrophs convert light energy to chemical energy using CO2 and H2O to produce glucose and O2.

What two main processes are involved in photosynthesis?

Light reactions and the Calvin cycle.

What is produced as a by-product of the light reactions in photosynthesis?

Oxygen (O2) is released as a by-product.

Where does the Calvin cycle occur in plant cells?

The Calvin cycle occurs in the stroma of chloroplasts.

What energy transformations occur in the Calvin cycle?

ATP and NADPH from light reactions are used to convert CO2 into sugars.

What percentage of sunlight is captured by plants through photosynthesis?

Less than 1% of sunlight is captured by plants.

What phenomenon explains why energy decreases at each trophic level in a food chain?

The 10% rule, where approximately 90% of energy is lost as heat at each level.

How do coral reefs benefit from symbiotic relationships with zooxanthellae?

Corals rely on zooxanthellae to photosynthesize and provide them with nutrients.

What is a unique characteristic of certain animals related to photosynthesis?

Some animals, like the emerald sea slug, can utilize photosynthesis by incorporating chloroplasts from algae.

What is the function of chlorophyll in photosynthesis?

Chlorophyll is a pigment that absorbs light energy, mainly at red and blue wavelengths.