Photosynthesis Model Quiz

• Photosynthesis is the process of converting light energy into chemical energy in the form of glucose
• The model published by the authors in 1980 attempted to link equations describing Rubisco kinetics with others on the stoichiometry of the photosynthetic carbon reduction cycle and the photorespiratory carbon oxidation cycle, particularly on their energetic (electron transport and ATP synthesis) requirements.
• Building on the pioneering modeling of Hall, Tenhunen, Peisker, Laisk, and others, the authors drew together biochemical and organelle level observations of the temperature dependencies of these phenomena, and combined them with an empirical equation for the dependence of “potential” electron transport rate on absorbed irradiance.
• The model attempted to match generalized observations of the photosynthetic gas exchange of leaves with predictions from this mathematical summary of photosynthesis.
• The model was used to answer the question raised in Farquhar and Cowan's collaboration on optimal behavior of stomata: What would the rate of CO2 assimilation be if stomatal conductance were slightly perturbed? and to develop a model of C4 photosynthesis.
• The model has been used to help understand gas exchange kinetics and leaf biochemistry
• The model has been useful for teaching and for fitting data, and has stimulated development of both fields
• The model is a useful framework for understanding gas exchange kinetics and leaf biochemistry

Test your knowledge about the photosynthesis model introduced in 1980 that aimed to link Rubisco kinetics, stoichiometry of photosynthetic carbon reduction cycle, and photorespiratory carbon oxidation cycle. Learn about its applications in understanding gas exchange kinetics, leaf biochemistry, and as a teaching tool.