Leaves and Photosynthesis

Flashcards about leaves and photosynthesis.

Photosynthesis

The process by which plants convert light energy into chemical energy.

Transpiration

The loss of water vapor from aerial parts of plants.

Gaseous exchange

The process by which plants exchange gases with the environment.

Dorsiventral leaf

A leaf having distinct upper and lower surfaces.

Adaxial epidermis

The upper epidermis of a leaf.

Abaxial epidermis

The lower epidermis of a leaf.

Stoma

Pores on the underside of leaves through which gases move in and out.

Palisade mesophyll

Layer of cells in leaves where most photosynthesis occurs.

Spongy mesophyll

Layer of cells in leaves with air spaces to facilitate gas exchange.

Xylem

Tubes that transport water from the roots to the leaves.

Phloem

Tubes that transport sugars produced in the leaves to the rest of the plant.

Guard cells

Specialized cells that control when the stomata open and close, preventing water loss.

Chloroplasts

Organelle containing chlorophyll, the green pigment used for absorbing light energy.

Photosynthesis equation

CO2 + H2O + Sun's energy + Chlorophyll -> C6H12O6 + O2

Granum

Stack of thylakoids inside the chloroplast.

Stroma

Aqueous fluid inside the chloroplast.

Lamella

Connects and separates the grana inside the chloroplast.

Light-dependent phase

Phase taking place in the grana, where sunlight is absorbed by chlorophyll and water is split into oxygen and hydrogen.

Light-independent phase

Phase taking place in the stroma, where H and ATP bind with CO2 to produce glucose.

Calvin Cycle

The cycle where H and ATP bind with CO2 to produce glucose.