2.20 Flashcard: Leaves and Photosynthesis

Front

What is the function of the spongy mesophyll in leaves?

Back

The spongy mesophyll facilitates gas exchange and contains air spaces that allow carbon dioxide to diffuse to the palisade mesophyll for photosynthesis.

Front

What is chlorophyll and its role in photosynthesis?

Back

Chlorophyll is a green pigment found in chloroplasts that captures light energy for photosynthesis.

Front

Where are most chloroplasts located in a leaf?

Back

Most chloroplasts are found in the palisade mesophyll layer, which is located just beneath the upper epidermis.

Front

What are guard cells and their function?

Back

Guard cells are specialized cells that control the opening and closing of stomata, regulating gas exchange and water loss in plants.

Front

What organelle is responsible for photosynthesis?

Back

The chloroplast is the organelle where photosynthesis occurs.

Front

What is the primary product of photosynthesis?

Back

The primary product of photosynthesis is glucose, which serves as an energy source for plants.

Front

What are the two main stages of photosynthesis?

Back

The two main stages of photosynthesis are the light-dependent reactions and the light-independent reactions (Calvin cycle).

Front

What is the role of sunlight in photosynthesis?

Back

Sunlight provides the energy needed to drive the chemical reactions of photosynthesis.

Front

What gas do plants take in during photosynthesis?

Back

Plants take in carbon dioxide (CO2) from the atmosphere during photosynthesis.

Front

What is the significance of the upper epidermis in leaves?

Back

The upper epidermis protects the leaf and helps reduce water loss.