Chapter 4 - Photosynthesis

Photosynthesis

the process by which plants convert carbon dioxide and water into sugars using sunlight as energy in the presence of chlorophyll.

Light intensity

The limiting factor on the rate of photosynthesis besides, carbon dioxide concentration and temperature

cuticle

protects the epidermis and prevents excessive water loss through evaporation.

Guard Cells

Bean-shaped, chloroplast-containing cells located in the lower epidermis.

Upper epidermis

single layer of irregular, closely packed cells covered by a layer of waxy cuticle.

Palisade mesophyll

cells that are columnar in shape and closely packed

Spongy mesophyll

cells that are irregular in shape with numerous intercellular air spaces around them to allow for fast diffusion of carbon dioxide

Vascular Bundles

The name given to xylem and phloem tissues collectively

Stomata

Structures in plants, opened during the day for carbon dioxide intake and closed during the night to minimise water loss through transpiration.

Flaccid

The appearance of guard cells when there is excessive water loss, even during the day, and they lose turgor