Plant Biology and Photosynthesis Key terms CIE checkpoint

Life Processes

The basic functions that keep living things alive (e.g. movement, respiration, sensitivity, growth, reproduction, excretion, nutrition - often remembered as MRS GREN).

Minerals

Useful ions and substances that plants absorb from the soil to stay healthy.

Magnesium

A mineral needed to make chlorophyll.

Nitrates

A type of mineral that helps plants make amino acids and proteins.

Chlorophyll

Green pigment found in chloroplasts that absorbs light for photosynthesis.

Protein

Nutrient needed for growth and repair in a plant.

Photosynthesis

Process where plants make food using sunlight, carbon dioxide, and water.

Word equation for photosynthesis

Carbon dioxide + Water → Glucose + Oxygen (with light energy and chlorophyll).

Chloroplast

Part of a plant cell where photosynthesis happens.

Carbohydrate

Type of food made by plants during photosynthesis (e.g. glucose, starch).

Light Energy

Energy from the sun used in photosynthesis.

Carbon Dioxide

A gas taken in by plants from the air in photosynthesis.

Water

A liquid taken in by plant roots to help transport minerals and use in photosynthesis.

Glucose

A sugar made by plants during photosynthesis.

Oxygen

A gas released by plants during photosynthesis.

Stem

Supports the plant and carries water and nutrients.

Roots

Anchor the plant and absorb water and minerals.

Leaves

Where photosynthesis happens.

Flowering Plants

Plants that produce flowers and seeds.

Absorption

Taking in substances like water and minerals.

Root Hair Cells

Special cells on roots that absorb water and minerals.

Transport

Moving substances around the plant.

Xylem

Tubes that carry water and minerals from roots to leaves.

Transpiration

Loss of water from leaves into the air.

Stomata

Holes in the bottom of leaves where water diffuses out of in transpiration and oxygen and carbon dioxide are exchanged.

Carbon

An element found in all living things.

Carbon Cycle

Movement of carbon through living things, the air, and the Earth.

Respiration

Process where living things release energy from food, producing carbon dioxide.

Feeding

When animals eat plants or other animals, passing carbon along.

Decomposition

Breakdown of dead organisms, releasing carbon.

Combustion

Burning fuels, which releases carbon dioxide into the air.

Carbon Cycle Diagram

Root hair cell Diagram

Stomata picture