the secrets of plants

Secrets of Plants: Sun and Photosynthesis

Plants are usually considered to be just some kinds of green decoration, while in fact, they stand among the wonders of living nature and are really very important for Earth's ecosystem. Their ability to produce their own food is just one of those wonders-photosynthesis.

Photosynthesis is a very complex biochemical process that occurs in plant cells, within organelles known as chloroplasts. These minute organelles contain a green pigment called chlorophyll, which absorbs sunlight. As a matter of fact, when sunlight hits chlorophyll, this, in turn, triggers several chemical reactions, through which water and carbon dioxide are converted into glucose-a simple sugar that provides the plant with the primary source of energy.

Photosynthesis is driven by the energy from the sun. The energy is captured by chlorophyll, which reduces the water molecules into hydrogen and oxygen. Hydrogen atoms then recombine with carbon dioxide to form glucose. Oxygen is a byproduct of this reaction that is released into the atmosphere and is essential for the survival of most life on Earth.

Besides providing the biological world with food, plants are very important because they regulate Earth's climate by absorbing carbon dioxide from the atmosphere, a greenhouse gas. Removal of carbon dioxide balances the gases in the atmosphere to prevent too high temperatures.

Plants have developed various ways of adapting to the environment to be able to maximize photosynthesis. Some plants have leaves that may tilt to receive maximum sunlight, while others have special structures for water conservation in xerophytic habitats. These adaptations illustrate the extraordinary diversity and resiliency of plant life.

In the final analysis, they are much more than a decoration to embellish the house or yard. They are essential for life on Earth because they produce food and oxygen and regulate the climate of the earth. Knowledge of photosynthesis explains how plants have developed the ability to survive and allow our world to be healthy.