Photosynthesis Flashcards
Photosynthesis definition
Conversion of kinetic energy from the sun into potential energy stored in molecules
Mostly in mesophyll of leaves (middle area)
Photosynthesis equation
6 CO2 + 12 H2O + light energy -> C6H12O6 + 6 O2 + 6 H2O
Amount of light needed to conduct photosynthesis reaction?
Varies by species
How is light measured in Botany?
uMol - Micro mol
Earth MAXIMUM micro mols of light energy from the sun?
Approximately 2000 micro mol per meters squared per second
Max USABLE micro mols of light energy from the sun?
Approximately 1000 micro mols per meters squared per second
What happens to chlorophyll with too much light energy from the sun?
Oxidizes the chlorophyll
Permanent damage
What is the optimal wavelength of light for energy?
680nm
Light Dependent Reactions
Require light
4 Distinct processes
RuBISCO
What if O2 levels are too high?
RuBISCO will turn into an oxidase.
If it can’t attach CO2 to RuBP, it attaches O2 to RuBP
RuBISCO
Photorespiration
When RuBISCO attaches O2 to RuBP
No energy is stored
Oxygen levels get too high in ___ or ____ plants
Heat stressed or water stressed
C4 Plants
Are better in what environment?
Heat stressed or water stressed environments
C4 Plants
Kranz anatomy
What type cells and what are they impermeable to?
What reactions occur there?
Bundle sheath cells are CO2 impermeable
Light independent reactions only occur here
C4 Plants
Process
How is CO2 moved into the bundle sheath cell?
How does it help CO2 release?
Regular cells attach CO2 to PEP and convert into oxaloacetate (salt).
and moves into bundle sheath cell.
CO2 is released as needed.
