Question

Difficulty: EasyPlant Biology and Photosynthesis

Plants absorb carbon dioxide from the atmosphere and convert it into usable energy via photosynthesis. In what sequential order does carbon move and transform within a plant, starting from initial absorption to its distribution as sugar?

  1. 1Carbon dioxide enters the leaf from the surrounding air through microscopic pores called stomata.
  2. 2The gas diffuses through the internal air spaces into the chloroplasts of leaf cells.
  3. 3Chemical energy generated from sunlight fixes the carbon atoms into glucose molecules.
  4. 4The synthesized glucose is transported through phloem tissue to nourish other plant parts.

Answer

Carbon dioxide enters through stomata → diffuses into chloroplasts → is converted into glucose molecules → transported through phloem tissue.
The correct sequence begins with the intake of gaseous carbon dioxide through leaf stomata, followed by its diffusion into the chloroplasts where photosynthesis occurs. Solar energy converts this carbon into glucose, which is subsequently transported throughout the organism via the phloem vascular tissue.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Identify the initial entry point of atmospheric carbon dioxide.
Gaseous carbon dioxide enters through the stomata on the leaf surface.
Plants require an opening in their dermal tissue to allow atmospheric gases inside.
2
Trace the movement of the gas to the site of photosynthetic reactions.
Carbon dioxide moves into the chloroplasts of photosynthetic cells.
Chloroplasts contain the necessary enzymes and substrates for carbon fixation.
3
Determine the chemical conversion step of photosynthesis.
Sunlight-derived chemical energy converts inorganic carbon into glucose.
The core function of photosynthesis is producing chemical sugars from carbon dioxide and water.
4
Trace the distribution of the synthesized organic compound.
Glucose is loaded into the phloem and transported throughout the plant.
Non-photosynthetic structures such as roots and growing stems require glucose delivered via the vascular system.

Key Concept

Pathway of Carbon Assimilation and Transport in Photosynthetic Plants
Estimated Time:45s
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