B4- Photosynthesis and limiting factors

• What does photosynthesis produce using light?

  Glucose
• What are the main reactants used in photosynthesis?

  Carbon dioxide and water
• Where does photosynthesis take place in plant cells?

  In chloroplasts
• What pigments are found in chloroplasts that are essential for photosynthesis?

  Chlorophyll
• How is energy transferred to chloroplasts for photosynthesis?

  By light from the environment
• What type of reaction is photosynthesis classified as?

  Endothermic
• What is the word equation for photosynthesis?

  carbon dioxide + water → glucose + oxygen
• What is the symbol equation for photosynthesis?

  6CO₂ + 6H₂O → C₆H₁₂O₆ + 6O₂
• What are the five main ways plants use glucose?

  1. For respiration
  2. Making cellulose
  3. Making amino acids
  4. Stored as oils or fats
  5. Stored as starch
• How do plants use glucose for respiration?


  It transfers energy from glucose for various processes
• What is glucose converted into for making strong plant cell walls?

  Cellulose
• How are amino acids made in plants?

  By combining glucose with nitrate ions
• What do plants convert glucose into for storage in seeds?

  Oils or fats (lipids)
• Why is starch a better storage form than glucose?

  Starch is insoluble, preventing water absorption
• What factors affect the rate of photosynthesis?

  Intensity of light, concentration of CO₂, and temperature
• What does it mean if a factor is a limiting factor in photosynthesis?

  It stops photosynthesis from happening any faster
• How do environmental conditions affect which factor is limiting in photosynthesis?

  Different conditions determine which factor is limiting at a given time
• What is often the limiting factor for photosynthesis at night?

  Light
• What is often the limiting factor for photosynthesis in winter?

  Temperature
• What is usually the limiting factor for photosynthesis when conditions are warm and bright?

  CO₂ concentration
• How can chlorophyll be a limiting factor in photosynthesis?

  Its amount can be affected by disease or environmental stress
• What can damage chloroplasts and reduce chlorophyll production?

  Disease and lack of nutrients
• What is the effect of reduced chlorophyll on photosynthesis?

  It reduces the rate of photosynthesis
• What are the consequences of a plant having insufficient chlorophyll?

  • Reduced ability to absorb light
  • Decreased rate of photosynthesis
  • Potential stunted growth