Photosynthesis
Why is it important to the plant?
The general Process
• Step One- absorb sunlight
• Step Two- turn sunlight into usable energy
• Step Three- Use energy to produce
biomolecules
Leaf Pigments
Light Absorption and Reflection
Why Leaves are Green
The Purpose of Pigments
Location of Pigments
Photosynthesis Step One
Types of Pigments
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Chlorophyll- C55H72O5N4Mg- green
Xanthophylls- yellow
Carotenoids- yellow/orange
Anthocyanins- red
Look at Leaf Chromatography
• Put yourself into groups based on the color of
your original leaf
• What do you all have in common?
• Discuss and write the colors present on your
chromatography slip
Analysis Questions
• What pigment is missing when leaves change
colors?
• Why do leaves have more than one pigment?
• What colors are most useful for plants?
• Why do you think leaves change colors?
Life Cycle of Deciduous Plants
Why Leaves Change Colors
How These Pigments Start
Photosynthesis
• Step One: light absorption
– Where does this process take place
– What is occurring in this process
– What role do the pigments play
What happens to electrons when
they gain energy?
Chlorophyll Releases an Electron
Draw The Process
What things are needed to start the
process?
What things are produced?
How is Light Used
How is water used?
Exit Slip Questions
• What changes occur in the leaves during fall?
• Why do plant leaves have more than one
pigment?
• Summarize the process of light absorption.
Make sure to include the following terms:
water, hydrogen ions, oxygen, light, electrons,
chlorophyll, enzyme