8 Questions
What are the two major groups of specialized plants that conserve water?
C4 plants and CAM plants
What is the purpose of closing the small openings in the leaves of plants?
To conserve water and prevent drying out
How do C4 plants capture low levels of carbon dioxide?
Through a specialized chemical pathway
What is the main difference between C4 and CAM plants?
C4 plants capture carbon dioxide and pass it to the Calvin cycle, while CAM plants admit air into their leaves only at night
How do CAM plants trap carbon within their leaves?
By combining carbon dioxide with existing molecules to produce organic acids
How do C4 plants and CAM plants minimize water loss while still allowing photosynthesis to occur in intense sunlight?
C4 plants have a specialized chemical pathway that allows them to capture very low levels of carbon dioxide and pass it to the Calvin cycle. CAM plants admit air into their leaves only at night and trap carbon dioxide by producing organic acids.
What is the role of organic acids in CAM plants?
Organic acids are produced during the night and 'trap' the carbon dioxide within the leaves. During the day, these compounds release carbon dioxide inside the leaf for carbohydrate production.
What is the purpose of closing the small openings in plant leaves to conserve water?
Closing the small openings in the leaves helps prevent the plants from drying out. However, it also causes carbon dioxide levels within the leaves to decrease.
Test your knowledge on C4 and CAM plants and their unique adaptations to conserve water and minimize carbon dioxide levels in their leaves. Explore the biochemical strategies employed by these specialized plants to thrive in arid environments.
Make Your Own Quizzes and Flashcards
Convert your notes into interactive study material.
Get started for free
