Plant Cell Anatomy and Photosynthesis: Key Structures and Light Reactions

What is the function of the plasma membrane in a plant cell?

It acts as a barrier that regulates the entry and exit of substances.

What organelle is responsible for photosynthesis in plant cells?

Chloroplast

What is the role of the Golgi apparatus?

It modifies, sorts, and packages proteins and lipids for secretion or delivery to other organelles.

What is the function of vacuoles in plant cells?

They store nutrients, waste products, and help maintain turgor pressure.

What are ribosomes responsible for?

They synthesize proteins by translating messenger RNA.

Where do light-dependent reactions of photosynthesis occur?

In the thylakoid membrane of the chloroplast.

What is the role of chlorophyll in photosynthesis?

It absorbs light energy, primarily in the blue and red wavelengths, and reflects green light.

What happens to water during the light-dependent reactions?

Water breaks up and releases oxygen (O₂) while providing electrons.

What is the electron transport chain (ETC) in photosynthesis?

A series of proteins in the thylakoid membrane that pass electrons down the line, releasing energy.

What is produced when NADP+ accepts electrons?

NADPH, an energy-rich molecule.

What is the absorption spectrum of chlorophyll a?

It absorbs violet/blue and red light, reflecting green.

What is the significance of the stroma in chloroplasts?

It is the fluid-filled space where the Calvin cycle occurs, synthesizing glucose.

What is the structure of thylakoids in chloroplasts?

They are stacked in structures called granum and are the site of light-dependent reactions.

What is the relationship between wavelength and energy in light absorption?

Shorter wavelengths (like violet) have more energy, while longer wavelengths (like red) have less energy.

What is the function of ATP synthase in photosynthesis?

It synthesizes ATP from ADP and inorganic phosphate using the energy from the proton gradient.