ThinkRankNutrition in Plants
Plants make their own food through photosynthesis, using light energy, carbon dioxide, water, and chlorophyll. The process supports plant growth and supplies food and oxygen to many other organisms. Plants also obtain minerals from soil, while some organisms depend on other living things for nutrition.
Learning Objectives
- •Explain photosynthesis in a simple word equation
- •Identify the roles of sunlight, chlorophyll, carbon dioxide, and water
- •Distinguish autotrophic and heterotrophic nutrition
- •Describe why plants need minerals and why soil fertility matters
Key Concepts
Photosynthesis stores energy
Green plants convert light energy into chemical energy stored in food; oxygen is released as a by-product.
Plants have different nutrition strategies
Most green plants are autotrophs, while parasitic, saprotrophic, and insectivorous plants obtain some nutrients from other sources.
Soil and air both matter
Roots absorb water and minerals from soil, while leaves exchange gases through tiny openings called stomata.
Terminology
Historical Insight
Testing a leaf
A starch test after exposing a leaf to light gives evidence that food was formed, though safe laboratory guidance is essential.
Legume crops
Rhizobium bacteria associated with legume roots can help add usable nitrogen compounds to soil.
Quick Check
What is the role of chlorophyll?
Why is photosynthesis important beyond the plant itself?
How is a parasite different from a saprotroph?
How to use this lesson
Read the overview first, then explain the main idea in your own words before checking the key concepts. Use the quick-check questions without looking at the answer. For examination preparation, verify dates, definitions, and syllabus requirements against your official textbook and school or examination-board guidance.