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 chloroplasts
• What pigment in chloroplasts absorbs light?

  Chlorophyll
• What does chlorophyll absorb from the environment?

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

  Carbon dioxide and water
• What is the chemical equation for photosynthesis?

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

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

  Endothermic reaction
• How does energy transfer occur in photosynthesis?

  From the environment to chloroplasts by light
• How does carbon dioxide enter the leaves?

  Through the stomata
• How is water transported to the leaves?

  By the xylem
• What is the main product that plants want from photosynthesis?

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

  For respiration
• Why is glucose considered essential for plants?

  It is used for energy and growth
• What are the five main uses of glucose in plants?

  1. Cellular respiration for energy
  2. Making cellulose for cell walls
  3. Making starch for storage
  4. Making amino acids with nitrate ions
  5. Making oils and fats for energy storage
• How does cellular respiration relate to glucose?

  It breaks glucose apart to release energy
• What is cellulose made from?

  Lots of glucose molecules combined
• Why is starch a better form of glucose for storage?

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

  When photosynthesis isn't happening much
• How do plants make amino acids?

  By combining glucose with nitrate ions
• 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