Photosynthesis and Limiting Factors Flashcards
Bioenergetics (20 cards)
What is photosynthesis?
Photosynthesis uses energy to change carbon dioxide and water into glucose and oxygen.
Where does photosynthesis take place?
In chloroplasts in green plant cells.
What pigment absorbs light in plants during photosynthesis?
Chlorophyll.
How is energy transferred to chloroplasts?
By light from the environment.
Is photosynthesis an endothermic or exothermic process?
Endothermic.
What is the word equation for photosynthesis?
Carbon dioxide + water
light
glucose + oxygen.
What is the chemical equation for photosynthesis?
6CO2 + 6H2O
light
C6H12O6 + 6O2.
List the five main ways plants use glucose.
- For respiration
- Making cellulose
- Making amino acids
- Stored as lipids (fats and oils)
- Stored as starch.
What is the process by which glucose is used for respiration?
It transfers energy from glucose, enabling plants to convert the rest into various useful substances.
How is glucose used to make strong plant cell walls?
Glucose is converted into cellulose.
How are amino acids made from glucose?
Glucose is combined with nitrates absorbed from the soil.
What happens to glucose stored as lipids?
It is turned into fats and oils for storing in seeds.
Why is starch a better storage form than glucose?
Starch is insoluble, which prevents cells from drawing in excess water and swelling.
What factors affect the rate of photosynthesis?
Intensity of light, concentration of CO2, and temperature.
What does it mean when a factor is described as the limiting factor?
It means that factor is stopping photosynthesis from happening any faster.
Which factor is usually limiting at night?
Light.
Which factor is often limiting in winter?
Temperature.
What can be a limiting factor of photosynthesis besides light, CO2, and temperature?
Chlorophyll.
What can affect the amount of chlorophyll in a plant?
Disease (e.g., tobacco mosaic virus) or environmental stress, such as a lack of nutrients.
How does damage to chloroplasts affect photosynthesis?
It reduces the rate of photosynthesis because they can’t absorb as much light.
