Lecture 5

Question 1

Photosynthesis

Answer 1

Plant leaves come in a variety of sizes and shapes

Their primary functions are to:
Intercept solar energy
House organelles involved in conversion of solar energy to chemical energy
Facilitate diffusion of co2 to sites of carbon fixation
Provide structures that prevent water loss to atmosphere

Question 2

What controls GPP?

Answer 2

Solar energy input
Dependent on vegetation structure
Environmental controls on efficiency of photosynthesis

Question 3

What does solar radiation vary with?

Answer 3

Latitude

Time of day