Module 5: Photosynthesis Flashcards
What is the definition of photosynthesis?
the process by which light energy from the sun is used to build complex organic molecules such as glucose
Organisms that are able to photosynthesise are said to be …
autotrophic
Where in the plant does photosynthesis take place?
in the chloroplasts
Name one way chloroplasts are adapted to their function as the site of photosynthesis
they have a network of membranes which provide a large surface area to maximise the absorption of light essential for the first step of photosynthesis
What do these membranes form?
flattened sacs called thylakoids which are stacked to form grana
What are grana joined by?
membranous channels called lamellae
What is the fluid enclosed in the chloroplast called?
What is this the site of?
stroma
many chemical reactions which result in the formation of complex organic molecules
Make one point about pigments?
they absorb specific wavelengths of light and reflect others , so each pigment absorbs and reflects different wavelengths
The primary pigment in photosynthesis is …
What 2 main colours of light are absorbed by chlorophyll A and which is reflected?
chlorophyll A
absorbs red and blue and reflects green
Name 3 other different pigments present in plants
Where are they all found?
All these pigments form what system?
Chlorophyll B
Xanthophylls
Carotenoids
embedded in the thylakoid membrane of the chloroplast
a light harvesting system
What is the role of the light harvesting system?
What pigment is present in the reaction centre?
to absorb , or harvest light energy of different wavelengths and transfer this energy quickly and efficiently to the reaction centre
Chlorophyll A
