Mechanism of Photosynthesis

Photosynthesis: Term photo synthesis was coined by Charles Reid Barnes in 1883. During photosynthesis the leaves containing chlorophyll in the presence of sunlight use carbon dioxide and water to synthesize glucose or sugar (simple carbohydrates). Carbohydrate which is produced in the process of photosynthesis is ultimately converted into starch and stored into leaves. From leaves it is transported to the parts of plants. Starch is a type of carbohydrate. The oxygen is so produced is released into atmosphere through the stomata. Leaves are known as the kitchen or food factories of the plants because photosynthesis takes place in leaves. Leaves look green because of the presence of cholrophyll. Besides leaves, photosynthesis takes place in other green parts of the plants also, such as in green stems. Sunlight is necessary for photosynthesis . Thus sun is the ultimate source of energy for all living organisms . The starch is carried to various parts of plants through pipe-like structures called phloem. The food stored in different parts of the plants are used by humans and animals. The chemical equation representing photosynthesis is as given below: $large 6H_2O + 6CO_2 rightarrow C_6H_{12}O_6 + 6O_2$

Water + Carbon dioxide —> Sugar + Oxygen

Sunlight, chlorophyll, water and carbon dioxide are essential for the process of photosynthesis. The food we eat is actually the solar energy captured by the leaves and stored in the form of food. This is why Sun is considered the ultimate source of energy.

Importance of Photosynthesis

Plants make food by the process of photosynthesis. This food is used for its own growth and repair of worn-out cells.

Almost all living organisms depend on the food synthesized by plants.

The photosynthesis helps to maintain a balaqnce between oxygen and carbon dioxide in the atmosphere as its absorb carbon dioxide and release oxygen.

Our Earth is the only unique planet, where photosynthesis takes palce. In the absence of photosynthesis life would not be possible on earth.

Sample Questions

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Question : 1

Starch is a kind of ___________________
A. Carbohydrate	B. Fats	C. Protein	D. Vitamin
Right Option : A
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Question : 2

Which of the following are correct ? (a) Photosynthesis was coined by Charles Reid Barnes in 1883. (b) During photosynthesis the leaves containing chlorophyll in the presence of sunlight use carbon dioxide and water to synthesize glucose or sugar (simple carbohydrates). (c) Carbohydrate which is produced in the process of photosynthesis is ultimately converted into starch and stored into Root.
A. Only (a) and (b) is correct .	B. Only (b) and (c) is correct .	C. Only (a) and (c) is correct .	D. All of these .
Right Option : A
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