Photosynthesis Flashcards
What is the main photosynthetic tissue in a leaf?
Palisade mesophyll
How is the density of stomata studied?
1.Apply clear nail polish to the lower epidermis of a leaf between the veins and allow it to dry
2.Using forceps, peel the nail polish from the leaf to produce a replica of the lower epidermis
3.Place the replica on the microscope slide and count the number of stomata using the microscope
Where are photosynthates produced?
The source (leaves)
Where does the light dependent stage of photosynthesis happen?
The thylakoid membrane and the thylakoid space of the chloroplast
What is the function of the light dependent stage of photosynthesis?
Converts light energy into chemical energy (ATP and NADPH)
Where does the light independent stage of photosynthesis happen?
Stroma of chloroplasts
What is the function of the light independent stage of photosynthesis?
Uses ATP and NADPH to produce organic molecules such as glucose
Where are photosynthetic pigments located?
The thylakoid membranes of chloroplasts
What are the two types of photosynthetic pigments in flowering plants?
Primary and accessory pigments
What is the primary pigment?
Chlorophyll a
What are the accessory pigments?
Chlorophyll b and carotenoids (xanthophyll and carotene)
What wavelengths of light do chlorophyll a and b absorb?
Blue and red
What wavelengths of light do carotenoids absorb?
Violet/blue
Which micronutrient is needed to produce chlorophyll a?
Nitrogen
How do you carry out chromatography?
1.Tear up leaves and grind with acetone to form a dark green solution
2.Use a capillary tube to spot the pigment onto chromatography paper
3.Place the chromatography paper into a solvent (such as acetone/petroleum)
4.Remove the chromatography paper once the solvent has travelled to the top of the strip. Observe the distances the pigments have travelled
5.Calculate the Rf value for each pigment.
6.Identify each pigment by comparing the Rf values to known values
