B6 PLANT NUTRITION Flashcards
What is photosynthesis?
The process where plants synthesize carbohydrates using light energy.
What is the word equation for photosynthesis?
Carbon Dioxide + Water → Glucose + Water.
What is the balanced chemical equation for photosynthesis?
6CO₂ + H₂O → C₆H₁₂O₆ + H₂O.
What is chlorophyll?
A green pigment in chloroplasts that absorbs light.
What is starch used for in plants?
Stored as an energy reserve.
What is cellulose used for in plants?
Builds cell walls.
What is glucose used for in plants?
Used in respiration to release energy
What is sucrose used for in plants?
Transported in the phloem.
What is nectar used for in plants?
Attracts insects for pollination
What is the function of nitrate ions in plants?
Needed for making amino acids (proteins).
What are the deficiency symptoms of nitrate ion shortage?
Stunted growth and yellow leaves.
Q: What is the function of magnesium ions in plants?
Needed to make chlorophyll.
What are the deficiency symptoms of magnesium ion shortage?
Yellow leaves.
How do you test for chlorophyll’s role in photosynthesis?
Use variegated leaves—only green parts turn blue-black with iodine
How do you test for light’s role in photosynthesis?
Place a plant in the dark—no starch is produced.
How do you test for carbon dioxide’s role in photosynthesis?
Use soda lime to absorb CO₂—no starch is formed.
Why do we test for starch in photosynthesis experiments?
To show that photosynthesis has occurred.
Why is the leaf boiled in water during a starch test?
To break cell walls and stop enzyme action
Why is the leaf warmed in ethanol during a starch test?
To remove chlorophyll
Why is the leaf dipped in warm water after ethanol treatment?
To soften it and allow penetration of iodine solution.
Why is iodine solution added to the leaf on a white tile?
To test for starch presence.
What are two general adaptations of leaves for photosynthesis?
Large surface area (for more light absorption) and thin structure (for short diffusion distance).
What is the function of the waxy cuticle?
Reduces water loss.
Why is the upper epidermis transparent?
To allow light to pass through
Why does the palisade mesophyll contain many chloroplasts?
For maximum photosynthesis
What is the function of the spongy mesophyll?
Has air spaces to allow gas exchange.
What is the function of stomata?
Open/close to control gas exchange and water loss
What controls the stomatal opening?
Guard cells.
What does the xylem transport?
Water
What does the phloem transport?
Sucrose (the product of photosynthesis)
