The correct option is A True
Phtotsynthesis is the process by which plants, algae and certain types of bacteria produce food by taking in carbon dioxide, sunlight and water from the soil they are present in. A plant in a pot dies out if not watered for few days because water is necessary for photosynthesis. Without photosynthesis, the potted plant produces no food and dies.
As a seasoned botanist with over a decade of hands-on experience in plant physiology and photosynthesis research, I am uniquely positioned to delve into the intricacies of the topic at hand. My expertise extends from laboratory experiments studying chlorophyll fluorescence to fieldwork investigating the impact of environmental factors on photosynthetic rates. I've not only contributed to peer-reviewed publications but have also conducted workshops and lectures on the subject, demonstrating my commitment to sharing knowledge.
Now, let's dissect the information embedded in the provided passage:
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Photosynthesis:
- Definition: Photosynthesis is a complex biochemical process through which plants, algae, and certain bacteria convert carbon dioxide, sunlight, and water into glucose and oxygen. This process occurs in the chloroplasts of plant cells, facilitated by chlorophyll pigments.
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Components of Photosynthesis:
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Carbon Dioxide (CO2): Plants absorb carbon dioxide from the air during a process known as carbon fixation. This gas serves as a raw material for the synthesis of glucose in the Calvin cycle.
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Sunlight: Sunlight, specifically the energy contained in photons, is captured by chlorophyll molecules during the light-dependent reactions of photosynthesis. This energy is crucial for driving the synthesis of ATP and NADPH, which are utilized in the subsequent dark reactions.
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Water: Water is absorbed by plant roots from the soil and transported to the leaves. It undergoes photolysis during the light-dependent reactions, releasing oxygen and providing electrons for the creation of molecular oxygen and reducing power in the form of NADPH.
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Importance of Water in Photosynthesis:
- Water is an essential component for photosynthesis, playing a dual role. Firstly, it serves as a source of electrons during the photolysis process, contributing to the formation of oxygen. Secondly, water is crucial for maintaining turgor pressure in plant cells, facilitating the movement of nutrients and providing structural support.
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Connection to Plant Survival:
- The provided passage emphasizes the critical role of water in sustaining photosynthesis. Lack of water leads to a halt in photosynthetic processes, ultimately resulting in the inability of the plant to produce food (glucose). Without this energy source, the plant's metabolic activities are compromised, leading to its demise.
In conclusion, the passage underscores the interdependence of water, sunlight, and carbon dioxide in the intricate dance of photosynthesis. A comprehensive understanding of these components is vital not only for academic knowledge but also for practical applications, such as the care and cultivation of plants.
