Photosynthesis

• What process must a plant carry out to grow and survive?

  Photosynthesis
• Where does photosynthesis take place in a plant?


  In the leaves, specifically in the chloroplasts
• What pigment in chloroplasts absorbs light for photosynthesis?

  Chlorophyll
• What does chlorophyll absorb from the environment?


  Light energy
• What are the reactants in the photosynthesis equation?


  Six molecules of carbon dioxide and six molecules of water
• What is produced as a result of photosynthesis?


  Glucose and oxygen
• What is the chemical equation for photosynthesis using symbols?

  6 CO₂ + 6 H₂O → C₆H₁₂O₆ + 6 O₂
• Why is light energy written above the reaction line in the photosynthesis equation?


  Because the reaction requires light energy to take place
• What type of reaction is photosynthesis classified as?


  An endothermic reaction
• How does energy transfer occur in photosynthesis?


  Energy is transferred from the environment to chloroplasts by light
• How does carbon dioxide enter the leaves of a plant?


  Through the stomata
• How does water reach the leaves of a plant?


  It is taken up from the soil by the roots and transported via the xylem
• What is the primary product that plants want from photosynthesis?


  Glucose
• What do plants sometimes use the oxygen produced in photosynthesis for?


  For respiration
• What is one way glucose is used by plants?


  For cellular respiration
• How can glucose be thought of in terms of energy?


  As a battery that stores energy
• What are the five main uses of glucose in plants?


  1. Cellular respiration (energy release)
  2. Making cellulose (strengthens cell walls)
  3. Making starch (long-term energy storage)
  4. Making amino acids (with nitrate ions)
  5. Making oils and fats (energy resource for seeds)
• Why is starch a better form of glucose for long-term storage?


  Because it is more compact and insoluble
• When do plants typically break down stored starch to glucose?


  When photosynthesis isn't happening much, like at night or in winter
• How do plants make amino acids from glucose?


  By combining glucose with nitrate ions from the soil
• What is the final use of glucose mentioned in the material?


  Making oils and fats for energy storage
• What factors affect the rate of photosynthesis?


  1. Light intensity
  2. Temperature
  3. Carbon dioxide concentration
  4. Amount of chlorophyll