Plant Structures and their Functions

Photosynthesis is an endothermic reaction in chloroplasts:
6CO₂ + 6H₂O → C₆H₁₂O₆ + 6O₂ (light energy required)

Limiting factors: light intensity, CO₂ concentration, temperature. At any time, the factor in shortest supply limits the rate.

Light intensity follows the inverse square law: I ∝ 1d². Doubling the distance quarters the light intensity.

Glucose is used for: respiration, making cellulose, making amino acids (with nitrates), stored as starch or lipids.