Guiding Questions
mcourtney 29 Oct 2007 09:58
The Process That Feeds the Biosphere
- Distinguish between autotrophic and heterotrophic nutrition.
- Distinguish between photoautotrophs and chemoautotrophs.
- Describe the structure of a chloroplast, listing all membranes and compartments.
The Pathways of Photosynthesis
- Write a summary equation for photosynthesis.
- Explain van Niel's hypothesis and describe how it contributed to our current understanding of photosynthesis. Explain the evidence that supported his hypothesis.
- In general terms, explain the role of redox reactions in photosynthesis.
- Describe the two main stages of photosynthesis in general terms.
- Describe the relationship between an action spectrum and an absorption spectrum. Explain why the action spectrum for photosynthesis differs from the absorption spectrum for chlorophyll a.
- Explain how carotenoids protect the cell from damage by light.
- List the wavelengths of light that are most effective for photosynthesis.
- Explain what happens when a solution of chlorophyll a absorbs photons. Explain what happens when chlorophyll a in an intact chloroplast absorbs photons.
- List the components of a photosystem and explain the function of each component.
- Trace the movement of electrons in noncyclic electron flow. Trace the movement of electrons in cyclic electron flow.
- Explain the functions of cyclic and noncyclic electron flow.
- Describe the similarities and differences in chemiosmosis between oxidative phosphorylation in mitochondria and photophosphorylation in chloroplasts.
- State the function of each of the three phases of the Calvin cycle.
- Describe the role of ATP and NADPH in the Calvin cycle.
- Describe what happens to rubisco when O2 concentration is much higher than CO2 concentration.
- Describe the major consequences of photorespiration. Explain why it is thought to be an evolutionary relict.
- Describe two important photosynthetic adaptations that minimize photorespiration.
- List the possible fates of photosynthetic products.