Photosynthesis Flashcards
What is the primary function of photosynthesis?
Photosynthesis transforms light energy into chemical energy by producing carbon compounds, which supply most of the chemical energy needed for life processes in ecosystems.
How does photosynthesis begin?
Photosynthesis begins with the absorption of light energy by chlorophyll and other pigments in plant cells.
What is the main product of photosynthesis?
The main product of photosynthesis is glucose, an energy-rich organic compound.
What is carbon fixation in photosynthesis?
Carbon fixation is the process where plants take in carbon dioxide from the air and use captured light energy to convert it into glucose through a series of chemical reactions.
How is glucose used by plants?
Glucose can be used immediately by the plant for cellular respiration, converted into starch for long-term storage, or used to synthesize other organic compounds like cellulose.
Why is photosynthesis crucial for ecosystems?
Photosynthesis provides the primary energy source for most ecosystems, as the chemical energy stored in carbon compounds becomes available to other organisms through food chains and food webs.
What important byproduct is released during photosynthesis?
Oxygen is released as a byproduct of photosynthesis, which is crucial for aerobic respiration in most organisms.
How does photosynthesis impact the global environment?
Photosynthesis plays a vital role in maintaining atmospheric oxygen levels, regulating the global carbon cycle, and supporting biodiversity by providing energy and organic compounds for diverse life forms.
Why is understanding photosynthesis important for addressing global challenges?
Understanding photosynthesis is crucial for comprehending energy flow in ecosystems and addressing global challenges like climate change and food security.
How do scientists use knowledge of photosynthesis in the search for extraterrestrial life?
Scientists looking for life on other planets and moons search for evidence of water and conditions suitable for photosynthesis, as these are considered essential for life as we know it.
What is the simple word equation for photosynthesis?
Carbon dioxide + Water → Glucose + Oxygen
What are the reactants in photosynthesis?
The reactants in photosynthesis are carbon dioxide (CO2) and water (H2O).
What are the products of photosynthesis?
The products of photosynthesis are glucose (C6H12O6) and oxygen (O2).
Where does the hydrogen used to produce glucose come from?
The hydrogen used to produce glucose comes from splitting water molecules during photosynthesis.
What happens to water molecules during photosynthesis?
Water molecules are split (photolysis) to provide hydrogen for glucose production and release oxygen as a byproduct.
What is the role of carbon dioxide in photosynthesis?
Carbon dioxide provides the carbon atoms needed to form glucose molecules during photosynthesis.
Why is glucose the primary product of photosynthesis?
Glucose is the primary product because it’s an energy-rich molecule that can be used immediately or stored for later use by the plant.
How does photosynthesis contribute to the carbon cycle?
Photosynthesis removes carbon dioxide from the atmosphere and incorporates it into organic compounds, playing a crucial role in the global carbon cycle.
What is the significance of oxygen production during photosynthesis?
Oxygen production during photosynthesis is crucial for maintaining atmospheric oxygen levels and supporting aerobic life forms.
How does understanding this conversion process enhance our knowledge of plant biology?
Understanding this conversion process helps explain how plants produce their own food, store energy, and contribute to ecosystem functioning and global atmospheric composition.
What is the simple word equation for photosynthesis?
Carbon dioxide + Water → Glucose + Oxygen
Where does the oxygen produced during photosynthesis come from?
The oxygen produced during photosynthesis comes from the splitting of water molecules.
What organisms perform photosynthesis and produce oxygen as a by-product?
Plants, algae, and cyanobacteria perform photosynthesis and produce oxygen as a by-product.
What is the process of splitting water molecules in photosynthesis called?
The process of splitting water molecules in photosynthesis is called photolysis.