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Learn: Photosynthesis
WJEC GCSE in BIOLOGY specification
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Welcome!Today we'll learn about photosynthesis, the process plants use to make their own food using sunlight. It's an essential process for life on Earth, and you'll find out why as we go along!
What is Photosynthesis?Photosynthesis is the process where green plants use sunlight, carbon dioxide, and water to produce glucose (a type of sugar) and oxygen. This is important because it provides energy for plants to grow and produces oxygen for animals and humans to breathe.
The Photosynthesis EquationThe word equation for photosynthesis is: carbon dioxide + water → glucose + oxygen. Sunlight and chlorophyll are needed for this process to happen. Chlorophyll is the green pigment found in chloroplasts, which captures sunlight.
Quick check: Which of the following is produced during photosynthesis?
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Where Does Photosynthesis Happen?Photosynthesis occurs in the chloroplasts, which are found in plant cells. Chloroplasts contain the green pigment chlorophyll, which absorbs sunlight and uses it to convert carbon dioxide and water into glucose and oxygen.
Photosynthesis takes place in the {{blank0}}, where the green pigment {{blank1}} captures sunlight.
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Limiting Factors of PhotosynthesisPhotosynthesis can be affected by limiting factors, which are conditions that control how fast the process happens. These factors include light intensity, carbon dioxide concentration, and temperature. If one of these is in short supply, photosynthesis will slow down.
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Uses of GlucoseThe glucose produced during photosynthesis has several uses. Plants use it for respiration to release energy. They also convert glucose into starch for storage, into cellulose for building cell walls, into proteins for growth, and into oils for energy storage.
Which of the following are uses of glucose in plants? (Select all that apply)
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Leaf Adaptations for PhotosynthesisLeaves are adapted for efficient photosynthesis. They are large and flat to absorb more sunlight and contain many chloroplasts. They also have stomata, which are tiny pores that allow gases like oxygen and carbon dioxide to move in and out.
The {{blank0}} are tiny openings on the leaf that allow gases to enter and leave. The leaf's flat shape is designed to {{blank1}} more sunlight.
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Review Time!Great work! You've learned about photosynthesis, including its process, equation, limiting factors, and adaptations of leaves. Now, let's test your understanding with a few questions.
What is the main purpose of photosynthesis?
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Which of the following are limiting factors of photosynthesis? (Select all that apply)
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During photosynthesis, carbon dioxide and water are converted into {{blank0}} and {{blank1}}.
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Match the items on the left with their correct pairs on the right
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