Photosynthesis Flashcards
what is photosynthesis
the process which produces food in the plant.
what is the equation for photosynthesis
carbon dioxide + water—>glucose + oxygen
what goes above and below the arrow in photosynthesis
Light
chlorophyll
why is photosynthesis important
Because it converts light energy to chemical energy, which is stored in the glucose. This chemical energy is released when glucose is broken down during respiration.
What is the balanced symbol equation for photosynthesis
6co2 + 6H2o —-> C6H1206 + 6o2
What are the three limiting factors of phosynthesis
Carbon dioxide
Light intensity
Temperature
how does light intensity effect Photosynthesis
(Hint think of the graph for photosynthesis)
chlorophyll uses light energy to perform photosynthesis
As Light intensity is increased the rate of photosynthesis will increase steadily (only up to a certain point)
Beyond that point it will not make a difference as it is no longer the limiting factor.
How does Carbon dioxide effect the rate of photosynthesis
co2 is a raw material -0.04%
As light intensity increases the concentration of Co2 will only increase photosynthesis up to a certain point
Beyond this point the graph will flatten showing that co2 is not the limiting factor anymore
as long as light and co2 are in plentiful supply temperature is the limiting factor
How does temperature effect photosynthesis
Temperature affects photosynthesis because it affects the enzymes involved
As temperature increases so does the rate of photosynthesis up to a point
If the temp goes above optimum temp (45) the plants enzyme will denature so the rate of photosynthesis rapidly decreases
if temp is the limiting factor it is usually because it is too low and things need warming.
How are leaves adapted for photosynthesis
Broad large SA:VOL ratio- more surface area exposed to sunlight (increased rate of photosynthesis)
Structure of the leaf
where is most of the chloroplast contained
Palisade mesophyll layer- near the top so they can get the most light
what is the upper epidermis like
The upper epidermis is transparent so that light can get through into the palisade layer
what is the function for Vascular Bundle
Transports vessels Xylem and Phloem
Deliver water and other nutrients to every part of the leaf
Take away the glucose produced by photosynthesis
support the leaf
What is the function of the waxy cuticle
prevents water loss by evaporation
function of the stomata
Little holes which let co2 diffuse directly into the leaf
