Photosynthesis

Front

What is photosynthesis?

Back

Photosynthesis is the process used by plants and other autotrophs to capture light energy and use it to power chemical reactions that convert carbon dioxide and water into oxygen and energy-rich carbohydrates such as sugars and starches.

Front

How do plants absorb water?

Back

Most of the water needed by the plant is absorbed by the roots and then travels up the stem to the leaves.

Front

What is the stroma?

Back

The stroma is the fluid portion of the chloroplast, located outside of the thylakoids.

Front

What is chlorophyll?

Back

Chlorophyll is the principal pigment of plants and other photosynthetic organisms, responsible for capturing light energy.

Front

Why are producers important for life on Earth?

Back

Producers (plants) are important because they use carbon dioxide and give us oxygen, which is essential for all aerobic life.

Front

What are autotrophs?

Back

Autotrophs are organisms that can produce their own food from inorganic substances, using light or chemical energy.

Front

What role do stomata play in photosynthesis?

Back

Stomata are small openings on the surface of leaves that allow for gas exchange; they enable carbon dioxide to enter and oxygen to exit.

Front

What is the Calvin Cycle?

Back

The Calvin Cycle is a series of biochemical reactions that occur in the stroma of chloroplasts, where carbon dioxide is fixed into glucose.

Front

What is the significance of light in photosynthesis?

Back

Light provides the energy needed for photosynthesis, allowing plants to convert carbon dioxide and water into glucose and oxygen.

Front

What are the products of photosynthesis?

Back

The products of photosynthesis are glucose (an energy-rich carbohydrate) and oxygen.