Photosynthesis

Science Behind - WHAT IS PHOTOSYNTHESIS?

Photosynthesis—a key process for life—is one of the most common topics covered in and out of science classrooms. During photosynthesis, plants use water, carbon dioxide and sunlight to make sugar (food) and they release oxygen as a byproduct.

Energy harnessed from photosynthesis plays a crucial role on Earth. The sugar produced by photosynthesis is then consumed by various organisms and the energy is transferred in the food chain. For example, the grass may be eaten by an insect, eventually that insect may be eaten by a frog, and eventually the frog will be eaten by a snake.

Have fun exploring Photosynthesis with these fun activities!

Photosynthesis in Leaf Disks

Students use the floating leaf disk technique to determine how additional carbon dioxide affects the rate of photosynthesis.

Electron Capture & Photosynthesis

Students explore the actual reactions of the electron transfer chain during photosynthesis by monitoring the color change of an indicator.

Sodium Alginate Photosynthesis

Students make their own algae spheres to study photosynthesis! Expose the spheres to different conditions and measure the productivity of the algae inside.

Photosynthesis Study Technique

Students use the floating leaf disk technique to determine how different variables affect the rate of photosynthesis.

Respiration versus Photosynthesis

Use an aquatic plant, snails, and bromthymol blue to study respiration and photosynthesis. Put critical thinking to the test with this apparent "reversal" of photosynthesis.