Photosynthesis and Energy in Ecosystems

Vocabulary flashcards covering the key terms, definitions, chemical equations, and process diagrams of photosynthesis.

Interdependent

Two or more things that depend or rely on each other.

Radiant energy

Energy contained in electromagnetic radiation (sunlight), provided by the Sun in the form of light and heat.

Photosynthesis

The process by which green plants convert radiant energy into potential energy stored as sugars (such as glucose), while releasing oxygen.

Chemical reactions

Chemical changes that take place when two or more compounds react and form new substances.

Cells

The smallest units of living organisms.

Chlorophyll

A green pigment located in plant cells that absorbs radiant energy from the Sun.

Potential energy

Energy that is stored in an object or system, such as energy stored in plants as sugars like glucose.

Stomata

Tiny openings in plants' leaves through which gases like carbon dioxide ($CO_2$) and oxygen ($O_2$) are absorbed and released.

Glucose

A simple sugar produced during photosynthesis that is used by the plant for food and to store potential energy.

"Photo" and "Synthesis"

Word origins where "photo" means 'light' and "synthesis" means 'to make'.

Equation for Photosynthesis

$$\text{carbon dioxide}\,(CO_2) + \text{water}\,(H_2O) \xrightarrow[\text{chlorophyll}]{\text{sunlight}} \text{glucose} + \text{oxygen}\,(O_2)$$

Diagram to explain photosynthesis

A visual summary illustrating radiant energy absorption, water uptake by roots, atmospheric $CO_2$ entering stomata, and oxygen release during glucose production.