Topic 5 -7 Flashcards
(13 cards)
What is photosynthesis?
The process by which organisms, particularly plants and algae, capture the energy of the Sun and use it to convert CO2 and water into simple sugars.
What is the role of pigments in photosynthesis?
To absorb light over a range of wavelengths and transfer energy to electrons involved in chemical reactions.
What is the first step in photosynthesis?
To convert light into a form of chemical energy.
What is the result of the light conversion in photosynthesis?
A series of anabolic reactions resulting in the production of carbohydrate.
What does an absorption spectrum for photosynthesis show?
How much light of each wavelength is absorbed by a pigment.
Which colors of light do chloroplast pigments mostly absorb?
Mostly in the red and blue parts of the spectrum.
Why is having several pigments beneficial in photosynthesis?
It absorbs more light in a wider range of wavelengths than a single pigment.
What wavelengths do carotenoids absorb that chlorophyll a cannot?
Between 450nm and 500nm.
Why are leaves green?
They absorb a range of wavelengths but very little green light, which is reflected.
What does an action spectrum for photosynthesis show?
The effect of light wavelength on the rate of photosynthesis.
What is the relationship between the absorption spectrum and the action spectrum?
Their shapes are similar, indicating that the pigments are involved in photosynthesis.
How can the rate of photosynthesis be measured?
In terms of the rate of O2 production.
Fill in the blank: The pigments present in leaves absorb a range of wavelengths but absorb very little _______.
green light
