17.3 Photosynthesis - Key Definitions

Question 1

Photosynthesis

Answer 1

The process by which light energy from the Sun is used to build complex organic molecules like glucose

Question 2

Autotrophic

Answer 2

Able to photosynthesise

Question 3

Heterotrophic

Answer 3

Obtains complex organic molecules by eating other organisms

Question 4

Thylakoids

Answer 4

Flattened sacs in the membrane

Question 5

Grana

Singular: granum

Answer 5

Stacked thylakoids

Question 6

Lamellae

Answer 6

Membranous channels joining the grana

Question 7

Stroma

Answer 7

Fluid enclosed in the chloroplast which is the site of many chemical reactions like the formation of complex organic molecules

Question 8

Chlorophyll a

Answer 8

The primary pigment in photosynthesis which absorbs Red + Blue and reflects Green

Question 9

Antennae complex

Answer 9

A light harvesting system made up of proteins and pigments

Question 10

Reaction centre

Answer 10

Where the reactions involved in photosynthesis take place

Question 11

Photosystem

Answer 11

What the light harvesting system and reaction centre are collectively known as

Question 12

Light-dependent stage

Answer 12

• Energy from sunlight is absorbed and used to form ATP

* The hydrogen from water is used to reduce coenzyme NADP to reduced NADP

Question 13

Light-independent stage

Answer 13

• Hydrogen from reduced NADP and CO2 is used to build organic molecules like glucose
• ATP supplies the required energy

Question 14

Xylem

Answer 14

Non-living tissue which transports water and mineral ions as well as providing support

Question 15

Phloem

Answer 15

Living tissue that transports food in the form of organic solutes around the plant from the leaves