C4 photosynthesis Flashcards
(3 cards)
1
Q
what is c4 photosynthesis
A
when the plant uses photosynthetic pathway to fix co2 in hot/dry environments
2
Q
why is C4 photosynthesis needed
A
minimizes photorespiration by increasing the concentration of CO2 around the enzyme RuBisCO, thus reducing the likelihood of its oxygenase activity, which leads to photorespiration.
-prevent water loss in arid places
- maximize water efficiency
3
Q
what is photorespiration
A
a metabolic process where the RuBisCo binds with oxygen instead of Co2 which can produce a toxic byproduct which wastes energy and harms the plant
