Photosynthesis IGCSE

Front

What is photosynthesis?

Back

Photosynthesis is the process by which green plants, algae, and some bacteria convert light energy, usually from the sun, into chemical energy in the form of glucose, using carbon dioxide and water.

Front

What is the role of chlorophyll in photosynthesis?

Back

Chlorophyll is a green pigment found in chloroplasts that absorbs sunlight, providing the energy needed for photosynthesis.

Front

What are the main products of photosynthesis?

Back

The main products of photosynthesis are glucose (a sugar) and oxygen.

Front

What is the function of the stomata in plants?

Back

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

Front

What is the significance of the vascular bundle in plants?

Back

Vascular bundles are structures that contain xylem and phloem, which transport water, nutrients, and food throughout the plant.

Front

What is the difference between the light-dependent and light-independent reactions in photosynthesis?

Back

Light-dependent reactions occur in the thylakoid membranes and require sunlight to produce ATP and NADPH. Light-independent reactions (Calvin cycle) occur in the stroma and use ATP and NADPH to convert carbon dioxide into glucose.

Front

What is the role of water in photosynthesis?

Back

Water is a reactant in photosynthesis; it is split during the light-dependent reactions to release oxygen and provide electrons for the formation of ATP and NADPH.

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What is the equation for photosynthesis?

Back

The equation for photosynthesis is: 6CO2 + 6H2O + light energy → C6H12O6 + 6O2.

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What is the palisade mesophyll?

Back

The palisade mesophyll is a layer of tightly packed cells in the leaf where most photosynthesis occurs, containing a high concentration of chloroplasts.

Front

What is the spongy mesophyll?

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The spongy mesophyll is a layer of loosely arranged cells in the leaf that allows for gas exchange and contains some chloroplasts.