photosynthesis Flashcards
How do plants “eat”?
They can make their own food by photosynthesis
Where does photosynthesis take place?
In the green parts of the plants (especially the leaves)
When does photosynthesis happen?
When it is light
What are the cells in algae and plant leaves full of?
Small green parts called chloroplasts
What do chloroplasts contain?
A green substance called chlorophyll
What happens during photosynthesis?
Light energy is absorbed by the chlorophyll in the chloroplasts
What is the energy in photosynthesis used for?
To convert carbon dioxide from the air plus water from the soil into a simple sugar called glucose
What is produced as a by-product in the chemical reaction of photosynthesis?
Oxygen, which is released into the air to be used when people breathe in
How can photosynthesis be summarized in an equation?
carbon dioxide + water > (light energy) > glucose + oxygen
What is the balanced equation for photosynthesis?
6CO2 + 6H2O > (light energy) > C6H12O6 + 6O2
What happens to the glucose produced during photosynthesis?
Some is used immediately by the cells of the plant for respiration, however a lot of it is converted into insoluble starch and stored
What does a plant need for photosynthesis to be successful?
Plenty of carbon dioxide, light and water
What adaptations do the leaves of plants have to make them perfect as organs of photosynthesis?
+ Most leaves are broad
+ They contain chlorophyll
+ They have air spaces
+ They have veins
How do broad leaves help the plant for photosynthesis?
It gives them a big surface area for light to fall on
How does the chlorophyll help the plant for photosynthesis?
The chlorophyll in the chloroplasts absorb the light energy
