Photosynthesis: Detailed Examination of Factors and Plant Glucose Utilization
This page provides a more in-depth look at the photosynthesis process, its limiting factors, and how plants utilize the glucose produced. It also explores the relationships between various factors and the rate of photosynthesis.
The basic equation of photosynthesis is reiterated:
6CO2 + 6H2O + light energy → C6H12O6 + 6O2
Highlight: Photosynthesis is an endothermic reaction, meaning it absorbs energy from the environment.
The factors affecting rate of photosynthesis are examined in more detail:
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Light intensity: Light provides the energy needed for photosynthesis. As light levels increase, the rate of photosynthesis also increases up to a certain point.
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Carbon dioxide concentration: The rate of photosynthesis increases with CO2 concentration, but only up to a certain amount. Too little CO2 can slow down the process.
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Temperature: This factor affects enzyme activity in photosynthesis.
Example: At low temperatures, enzymes work slowly, while at high temperatures (around 45°C), enzymes can be damaged or destroyed.
The relationship between these factors is illustrated through graphs, showing how the rate of photosynthesis changes with light intensity and temperature.
Vocabulary: Chlorophyll is the green pigment in plants that absorbs light energy for photosynthesis.
The document reiterates how glucose is used by plants in five main ways:
- Respiration: For energy transfer and production of other useful substances.
- Cellulose production: For strong plant cell walls.
- Amino acid synthesis: For protein production.
- Lipid storage: Glucose is converted to oils or fats.
- Starch storage: For long-term energy storage.
Definition: Limiting factor is any condition that prevents photosynthesis from occurring at a faster rate.
The page concludes by emphasizing that when there is plenty of light and warmth, the level of CO2 often becomes the limiting factor. In such cases, increasing CO2 concentration or adjusting other factors like light or temperature may be necessary to increase the rate of photosynthesis.
