Photosynthesis Flashcards
What is the photosynthesis equation?
carbon dioxide + water + light –> glucose + oxygen
Where in the cell does photosynthesis occur?
Chloroplast
Where on the plant does photosynthesis occur?
Leaves
What is the waxy layer on top of the leaf called?
Cuticle
What is the cuticle’s function?
To prevent water loss out of the top of the leaf
What is the layer of cells below the cuticle called?
Upper epidermis
Why is the upper epidermis transparent?
To let light enter the leaf and reach the chloroplasts
What cell layer is the main site of photosynthesis?
Palisade cells
How do you know that the palisade cell layer is the main site of photosynthesis in the leaf?
It is in these cells that most of the chloroplasts are found
How does carbon dioxide enter the leaf?
Through the stomata
What are the names of the cells either side of the stomata that open and close them?
The Guards cells
Why would the stomata want to close?
To prevent water loss when it is hot and dry
Why are stomata only found on the lower side of the leaf?
It is cooler that side and less likely to lose water by evaporation compared to if they were on the upper side
What is the name of the cell layer that contains cells surrounded by air spaces?
Spongy mesophyll cell layer
Why does the spongy mesophyll cell layer have air spaces?
To allow carbon dioxide that enters the leaf through the stomata to easily reach the palisade cell layer
