Photosynthesis FLASHCARDS

Front

The direct, initial source of energy for plants (indirectly, also the initial source of energy for most living things on Earth).

Back

Sun (light)

Answer explanation

The sun provides the light energy that plants use for photosynthesis, making it the direct source of energy for them. This process is fundamental for life on Earth, as it indirectly supports most living organisms.

Front

The organelle where photosynthesis takes place.

Back

chloroplast

Answer explanation

Photosynthesis occurs in chloroplasts, which contain chlorophyll to capture light energy. Mitochondria are involved in respiration, the nucleus houses genetic material, and vacuoles store substances, but only chloroplasts are responsible for photosynthesis.

Front

Identify the outer membrane: A, B, C, D, E

Back

A

Answer explanation

The outer membrane is identified as choice A, which typically represents the boundary layer in cellular structures, distinguishing it from the inner components represented by the other options.

Front

Identify the stroma: A, B, C, D, E

Back

B

Answer explanation

The stroma is the supportive tissue of an organ, and in this context, option B correctly identifies the stroma, distinguishing it from other components represented by options A, C, D, and E.

Front

Identify one thylakoid: A, B, C, D, E

Back

D

Answer explanation

Choice D is identified as a thylakoid, which are membrane-bound structures found in chloroplasts, essential for photosynthesis. The other options do not represent thylakoids.

Front

Identify a granum (i.e. one stack of thylakoids): A, B, C, D, E

Back

C

Answer explanation

A granum is a stack of thylakoids found in chloroplasts. In the provided options, choice C clearly represents a distinct stack of thylakoids, making it the correct identification of a granum.

Front

The light dependent reaction occurs in the ___

Back

thylakoid membranes

Answer explanation

The light-dependent reactions of photosynthesis occur in the thylakoid membranes of chloroplasts, where sunlight is captured and converted into chemical energy.

Front

This compound is broken down during the light dependent reaction of photosynthesis, producing oxygen gas.

Back

water (H₂O)

Answer explanation

During the light-dependent reactions of photosynthesis, water (H2O) is split to release oxygen gas. This process is essential for producing energy and oxygen, making water the correct answer.

Front

light absorbing molecules

Back

pigment

Answer explanation

Pigments are light-absorbing molecules that play a crucial role in photosynthesis by capturing light energy. Other options like NADP+, ATP Synthase, and photosynthesis itself do not directly refer to light-absorbing molecules.

Front

Photosystem II uses energy from light to

Back

split water into H+ and Oxygen gas

Answer explanation

Photosystem II uses light energy to split water molecules into hydrogen ions (H+) and oxygen gas. This process is crucial for photosynthesis, providing the electrons needed for further reactions.