6. Plant nutrition
6.1 Photosynthesis
Core
Define photosynthesis as the process by which plants manufacture carbohydrates from raw materials using energy from light
State the word equation for photosynthesis: carbon dioxide + water → glucose + oxygen, in the presence of light and chlorophyll
Investigate the necessity for chlorophyll, light and carbon dioxide for photosynthesis, using appropriate controls
Investigate and describe the effects of varying light intensity, carbon dioxide concentration and temperature on the rate of photosynthesis, e.g. in submerged aquatic plants
Supplement
State the balanced chemical equation for photosynthesis 6CO2 + 6H2O light chlorophyll C6H12O6 + 6O2
Explain that chlorophyll transfers light energy into chemical energy in molecules, for the synthesis of carbohydrates
Outline the subsequent use and storage of the carbohydrates made in photosynthesis
Define the term limiting factor as something present in the environment in such short supply that it restricts life processes
Identify and explain the limiting factors of photosynthesis in different environmental conditions
Describe the use of carbon dioxide enrichment, optimum light and optimum temperatures in glasshouses in temperate and tropical countries
Use hydrogencarbonate indicator solution to investigate the effect of gas exchange of an aquatic plant kept in the light and in the dark
6.2 Leaf structure
Core
Identify chloroplasts, cuticle, guard cells and stomata, upper and lower epidermis, palisade mesophyll, spongy mesophyll, vascular bundles, xylem and phloem in leaves of a dicotyledonous plant
Supplement
Explain how the internal structure of a leaf is adapted for photosynthesis
Structure of a leaf
6.3 Mineral requirements
Core
Describe the importance of:
– nitrate ions for making amino acids
– magnesium ions for making chlorophyll Supplement
Explain the effects of nitrate ion and magnesium ion deficiency on plant growth
Plant mineral requirements