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Photosynthesis, transpiration, mineral nutrition, and plant growth.
Plant physiology is the study of the functions and processes that occur within plants, including photosynthesis, transpiration, mineral nutrition, and plant growth. Understanding these processes is crucial for appreciating the importance of plants in our ecosystem. This study guide aims to provide a comprehensive overview of plant physiology, its key concepts, and practical applications.
Photosynthesis is the process where plants use sunlight to convert CO2 into glucose. It occurs in the chloroplasts, which contain the pigment chlorophyll that absorbs light energy. The overall equation for photosynthesis is 6CO2 + 6H2O + light energy → C6H12O6 (glucose) + 6O2. Oxygen is released as a byproduct and is essential for animal life.
Transpiration is the process of water loss from plants through evaporation from the leaves, stems, and roots. It occurs through small openings called stomata and is driven by the difference in water potential between the plant and its surroundings. Transpiration helps regulate temperature and maintain turgor pressure within the plant.
Mineral nutrition refers to the process of plants absorbing essential minerals from the soil, such as nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, and calcium. These minerals are necessary for various physiological processes like photosynthesis, cell wall formation, and enzyme activity. Plants absorb these minerals through their roots and transport them to other parts of the plant.
Plant growth is a complex process involving cell division, differentiation, and expansion. It is influenced by factors such as light, temperature, water, and nutrients. Plant hormones like auxins, gibberellins, cytokinins, and ethylene regulate various aspects of plant growth, including cell elongation, cell division, and flowering.
Plant hormones play a crucial role in regulating various physiological processes, including growth and development. Auxins promote cell elongation and differentiation, while gibberellins stimulate stem elongation and leaf expansion. Cytokinins regulate cell division and differentiation, whereas ethylene promotes fruit ripening and senescence.
Environmental factors like light, temperature, water, and nutrients significantly impact plant growth and development. Light intensity and quality influence photosynthesis and flowering, while temperature affects metabolic processes and growth rates. Water availability regulates transpiration and nutrient uptake, whereas nutrient deficiencies can limit plant growth.
Plants have evolved various adaptations to survive in diverse environments. For example, CAM (crassulacean acid metabolism) plants have adapted to arid conditions by storing CO2 at night and releasing it during the day. Drought-tolerant plants like succulents have developed thick cuticles and reduced transpiration rates to conserve water.
What is the process by which plants convert light energy from the sun into chemical energy?
Which of the following is a mechanism by which plants regulate their temperature and maintain water balance?
What is essential for plant growth and development?
Where does photosynthesis occur in plants?
What is the process by which plants release water vapor into the air through their leaves?
Which of the following is a type of plant hormone that promotes cell elongation and differentiation?
What is the process by which plants absorb essential minerals from the soil?
Which of the following environmental factors can limit plant growth?
What is the overall equation for photosynthesis?
What is the term for the process of water loss from plants through evaporation from the leaves, stems, and roots?
Discuss the importance of mineral nutrition in plant growth and development. (20 marks) (20 marks)
Describe the process of photosynthesis, including its importance in plant physiology. (20 marks) (20 marks)