Cellular Respiration and Ecosystems

The final page covers cellular respiration and ecosystem dynamics, explaining energy production and environmental interactions.

Definition: Cellular respiration is an exothermic process that releases energy from glucose for various biological functions.

Vocabulary: A quadrat is a square frame used for sampling and studying population distribution.

Example: Abiotic factors including light, water, temperature, and soil conditions influence organism distribution.

Highlight: Adaptations are specific features that make organisms suited to their particular habitats.

Photosynthesis and Plant Processes

Photosynthesis is a crucial biological process that occurs in chloroplasts, providing energy for plants and animals while producing oxygen. How photosynthesis increases plant biomass is explained through its endothermic nature and glucose production.

Key points:

• Photosynthesis occurs in chloroplasts and produces energy and oxygen
• Leaves are adapted for efficient photosynthesis with broad surfaces and specialized cells
• Limiting factors like carbon dioxide, light, and temperature affect photosynthesis rates
• Plant processes like diffusion, osmosis, and active transport are essential for nutrient uptake

Definition: Photosynthesis is an endothermic reaction where light energy is used to convert carbon dioxide and water into glucose and oxygen.

Highlight: Leaves have specific adaptations to maximize photosynthesis, including broad surfaces, palisade cells packed with chloroplasts, and stomata for gas exchange.