Photosynthesis Flashcards
Why is a large surface area important for a leaf?
To absorb all the CO2 needed and light energy for photosynthesis
What SA to volume ratio do leaves have?
Large surface area to volume ratio
What does rate of diffusion depend on?
SA, distance to diffuse and difference in concentration
What’s the word equation for photosynthesis?
Carbon dioxide + water —> glucose + oxygen
Opposite of human respiration
Where are most of the chloroplasts and chlorophyll located in the leaf?
Palisade mesophyll cells
How does CO2 enter the leaf?
Through the stoma and air spaces to to palisade mesophyll layer
What features of the upper epidermis have to allow photosynthesis?
No chloroplasts, to allow light through
What does the waxy cuticle do?
Prevents water loss and fungal infections
What’s the function of the stoma?
To allow CO2 and 02 to diffuse in and out of the cell, controlled by the guard cells depending on how much water is available
Where is the xylem and phloem located?
In the vascular bundle
What is the function of the xylem?
Carries water and mineral ions to the leaves
What’s the function of the phloem?
Carries away the products
Why is the xylem needed?
To carry water which is essential for photosynthesis
Why is a leaf thin?
To allow sunlight to penetrate to all cells and a short distance from the stomata to cells
Why are the xylem vessels close to the mesophyll cells?
Allows water and mineral ions to diffuse quickly to mesophyll layers
