Photosynthesis – the giver of life
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All life on earth is dependent upon the energy that comes from the Sun. The biological process that enables this energy to be harvested is known as photosynthesis. As well as the ongoing conversion of energy that occurs through these photochemical reactions much of the earth’s energy resources, for example peat and coal are a result of past plant photosynthesis. The term photosynthesis can be split up into two parts, ‘photo’ for light and ‘synthesis’ for the process of building up separate elements into a system.
Plants and other photosynthetic organisms such as blue-green algae are able to use the solar energy derived from the sun to convert carbon compounds. The general reaction is Carbon dioxide, water and light energy into carbohydrates and oxygen. These carbohydrates can then be stored by the plant and used to power molecular processes within. The carbohydrates also serve as the principle energy source for all forms of life.
In plants the most active photosynthetic tissues is the mesophyll, found in leaves. These contain many chloroplasts that contain light absorbing green pigments called chlorophylls. It is these chlorophylls that give plant leaves their green colour. The reduction of carbon dioxide by the chlorophylls also releases oxygen. So as well as creating a source of food, photosynthesis also gives us the air that we breathe.
Author: Deano
Mail: admin@plant-biology.com
Website: Plant biology
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