Photosynthesis and the carbon cycle

Vocabulary flashcards covering key terms and concepts from the Photosynthesis and the carbon cycle lesson.

Photosynthesis

The process by which plants make glucose using energy from light, water, and carbon dioxide; glucose and oxygen are produced (occurs mainly in the leaves).

Chlorophyll

Chlorophyll is a green pigment found in the chloroplasts of plant cells that absorbs light energy, primarily from the sun, and is essential for the process of photosynthesis.

Water

A reactant in photosynthesis, obtained from the soil.

Carbon dioxide

A reactant in photosynthesis, obtained from the air.

Glucose

A carbohydrate produced during photosynthesis; a sugar that stores energy. It can be converted immediately into other organic compounds or stored as starch for later use.

Oxygen

A waste gas produced during photosynthesis; released into the atmosphere (about 20% of air).

Word equation for photosynthesis

Water + carbon dioxide -> glucose + oxygen (the reactants yield the products in photosynthesis).

Light energy

Energy from sunlight that is captured by chlorophyll to drive photosynthesis.

Photo- (prefix)

Prefix meaning 'light'; as in photosynthesis, photo- words relate to light.

Photosynthesis meaning

Photo means light; synthesis means making; photosynthesis = making with light.

Leaves

The part of the plant where photosynthesis mainly occurs.

Light intensity

The amount of light reaching the plant; higher light intensity generally increases the rate of photosynthesis.

Importance of photosynthesis

Provides energy as glucose for most organisms and releases oxygen into the atmosphere.

Chemical Equation of Photosynthesis

6CO₂ + 6H₂O + light energy → C₆H₁₂O₆ + 6O₂

Where does Photosynthesis occur?

Photosynthesis occurs primarily in the chloroplasts of plant cells, where chlorophyll captures light energy.

Chloroplast