photosynthesis- B8

• What is the role of leaves in plants?

  Photosynthesis takes place in leaves
• What is transpiration in plants?

  The process of water leaving the plant through leaves
• Where do roots absorb water and minerals?

  From the soil
• What is the function of xylem in plants?

  To transport water upwards
• What is translocation in plants?

  The transport of sugars and sap up and down the plant
• What factors can increase the rate of transpiration?

  Higher temperature, lower humidity, and increased air movement
• What does a lack of nitrate ions in plants cause?

  Stunted growth due to ineffective protein synthesis
• What is chlorosis?

  The yellowing of leaves
• What is the function of the waterproof waxy cuticle on leaves?

  To prevent water from evaporating
• What is the role of the upper epidermis in leaves?

  To allow light to pass through to the palisade mesophyll
• What occurs in the palisade mesophyll layer of a leaf?

  The majority of photosynthesis takes place
• What is the function of the stomata in leaves?

  To allow gases to enter and exit the leaf
• How do guard cells regulate stomata?

  By changing size to control gas exchange
• What are the key processes involved in photosynthesis?


  • Light absorption by chlorophyll
  • Conversion of carbon dioxide and water into glucose and oxygen
  • Occurs in chloroplasts
  • Endothermic reaction
• What factors can limit the rate of photosynthesis?

  • Light intensity
  • Carbon dioxide concentration
  • Temperature
• How can the rate of photosynthesis be measured practically?

  • Submerging pondweed in water
  • Measuring the volume of oxygen produced
  • Counting bubbles (less accurate)
• What is the relationship between light intensity and distance from the light source?

  • Light intensity follows an inverse square relationship
  • Doubling the distance quarters the light intensity