NEET Important Questions Photosynthesis
FAQs on NEET Important Questions for Photosynthesis (Biology)
1. What are accessory pigments? State their importance in photosynthesis.
Chlorophyll-b, xanthophyll, anthocyanins and carotenoids are together known as accessory pigments of photosynthetic pigments. Also known as light-absorbing compounds, it is naturally present in photosynthetic organisms. Their main job includes absorption of light waves in its broader spectrum. Another term associated with accessory pigments is pigment bed, which refers to the associated groups of chlorophylls and remaining accessory pigments.
2. Does moonlight encourage photosynthesis?
Due to the inadequate energy in the atmosphere in order to excite chlorophyll molecules, plants are not able to go through the process of photosynthesis at night time or say midnight. The light energy which is getting reflected from the moon is 100-1000 times too little for the requirement for plants in order to perform photosynthesis. Though in the time of the full moon, moonlight from the same can tentatively support photosynthesis in certain algae and planktons.
3. Describe the relationship between photosynthesis and respiration.
Photosynthesis uses the energy which is obtained from sunlight, carbon dioxide and water in order to produce oxygen and glucose. Whereas respiration, basically cellular respiration, uses complete oxygen and glucose to form water and carbon dioxide both. On the other hand, the whole process of photosynthesis occurs in chloroplasts of plants, whereas respiration takes place in mitochondria over humans. Photosynthesis is an endothermic reaction, while respiration is an exergonic reaction.
4. Why does the rate of photosynthesis decrease at higher temperatures?
Photosynthesis is a chemical reaction. It is a process that works specifically on enzymes. Talking about enzymes, all of the enzymes only react at the most favourable temperature which is 25°C to 35°C. So by the normal understanding, if the temperature is increased by any means, the enzyme will get contaminated. Above the temperature of 40°C, the rate of photosynthesis slows down rapidly.
5. Why does the colour of leaves change in the dark?
Photosynthesis is an important process for the leaves and even plants to be healthy and alive. For the same, they require light. If it is kept in a place all dark with no sunlight at all, the colour of the leaf will automatically be changed to pale or a much lighter shade of green. Possibilities are there for it to change to yellow as well. The reason for this is the obstruction between the production of chlorophyll which is an essential component in the whole process of photosynthesis is disturbed and blocked. Without the presence of light, chlorophyll molecules break down slowly and as a result, the colour of the leaf changes.