chapter 8 Flashcards
What are photosynthetic organisms?
Organisms that can produce their own food through photosynthesis
Includes autotrophs like plants, algae, and some bacteria.
How do autotrophs produce their own food?
Through the process of photosynthesis, converting light energy into chemical energy
This involves capturing sunlight, using water and carbon dioxide.
What are the components of a chloroplast?
Thylakoids, stroma, and outer membrane
Thylakoids contain chlorophyll, essential for light absorption.
What is the role of oxygen in autotrophs?
Byproduct of photosynthesis, used in cellular respiration
Produced during the light reactions of photosynthesis.
What is the role of carbon dioxide in heterotrophs?
Used in cellular respiration to produce energy
Heterotrophs cannot use carbon dioxide directly for food.
What is the overall process of photosynthesis?
Conversion of light energy into chemical energy stored in glucose
Involves light reactions and the Calvin cycle.
What is compared in the light reaction of photosynthesis?
Energy input and output
Light energy is converted to ATP and NADPH.
What is compared in the Calvin cycle reaction?
Carbon input and output
CO2 is fixed into organic molecules.
What is the relationship between wavelength and energy in the electromagnetic spectrum?
Shorter wavelengths have higher energy
This is important for understanding how light interacts with plants.
What is the role of photosynthetic pigments?
To absorb sunlight for photosynthesis
Chlorophyll is the most important pigment.
How are ATP and NADPH produced?
Through redox reactions and membrane gradients
In the thylakoid membranes during light reactions.
What are the three steps of the Calvin cycle?
Carbon fixation, reduction phase, and regeneration of RuBP
ATP and NADPH are used during the reduction phase.
What is the significance of RuBP carboxylase enzyme?
Catalyzes the first step of the Calvin cycle
Essential for fixing carbon dioxide into organic molecules.
How is glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate (G3P) used in plants?
To produce other necessary plant molecules
G3P can be converted into glucose and other carbohydrates.
Where does photosynthesis occur in C3 plants?
In the chloroplasts of mesophyll cells
This is the primary location for the Calvin cycle.
Where does photosynthesis occur in C4 plants?
In both mesophyll and bundle sheath cells
Allows for efficient carbon fixation in hot environments.
How do C3/C4 modes of photosynthesis differ from CAM photosynthesis?
CAM plants fix carbon dioxide at night to reduce water loss
This adaptation helps in arid environments.
How do different ways of achieving photosynthesis help plants adapt?
Allow plants to optimize energy use and water conservation
Adaptations are crucial for survival in varying environments.
