Photosynthesis:What is the exact point in time it is initiated?

In summary, the exact point in time that photosynthesis is initiated depends on the species of plant and the light levels necessary for the process to occur. Plants perceive day and night length through changes in phytochrome molecules, which vary in response to the length of days and nights. The specific time at which photosynthesis begins before sunrise also varies depending on the species of plant and the intensity of light.
  • #1
Mazhar
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Photosynthesis:What is the exact point in time it is initiated?

I want to be enlightened as to what is the point in time at any place when green plants initiate the process of photosynthesis? If it starts at dawn, then at what location of the sun below horizen?

Another relevant question is whether plants can distinguish between darkness and visible light? If they cant, how the process could be initiated for catching the light?

I shall be grateful if guided. Thanks.
 
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  • #2
Your question is:what is the minimum light level required for photosynthesis?
The simple answer is that it depends on the species. Place a plant kept in darkness in a bell jar with a means of mesuring oxygen levels in the jar. Illuminate the plant with a controlled light source for about 10 minutes - the induction period. There
will be little change in the O2 reading during the first 5-10 minutes of illumination during which photosynthetic metabolites are synthesized until they reach the critical pool
sizes required for photosynthesis to occur. Once this has been achieved, the oxygen level will rise.

The light levels at which photosynthesis kicks in vary. And it doesn't start instaneously either.

Plants perceive day night length by changing phytochrome molecules between two different stereo isomers. Lengthening days means a buildup of one isomer; lengthening nights means a gradual buildup of the second isomer.
 
  • #3
Thanks a lot jim mcnamara .

My question is not about specific plant. I want to know about the majority of plants, in general terms, the time at dawn before sunrise when the photosynthesis begins, in other words what exactly is the time or the position/location of sun, when intensity of light becomes sufficient to triger the process of photosynthesis. Thanks.
 

1. What is photosynthesis?

Photosynthesis is the process by which plants, algae, and some bacteria use energy from sunlight to convert carbon dioxide and water into glucose (a type of sugar) and oxygen. This process is vital for the survival of these organisms and is responsible for producing the oxygen we breathe.

2. How does photosynthesis work?

Photosynthesis occurs in two main stages: the light-dependent reactions and the light-independent reactions (also known as the Calvin cycle). During the light-dependent reactions, light energy is absorbed by pigments in the plant, such as chlorophyll, and converted into chemical energy in the form of ATP and NADPH. In the light-independent reactions, this energy is used to convert carbon dioxide into glucose.

3. What is the role of chlorophyll in photosynthesis?

Chlorophyll is a pigment found in plants that gives them their green color. It is essential for photosynthesis because it absorbs light energy and uses it to power the chemical reactions that produce glucose. Without chlorophyll, plants would not be able to carry out photosynthesis and would not be able to produce their own food.

4. What environmental factors affect photosynthesis?

The rate of photosynthesis can be affected by several environmental factors, including light intensity, carbon dioxide levels, and temperature. Plants require a certain amount of light and carbon dioxide to carry out photosynthesis, and their optimal temperature range for this process is typically between 20-30 degrees Celsius.

5. How does photosynthesis contribute to the Earth's ecosystem?

Photosynthesis is crucial for maintaining the Earth's ecosystem. It not only provides oxygen for animals to breathe, but it also serves as the primary source of energy for most living organisms. The glucose produced during photosynthesis is used by plants and other organisms as a source of food and energy, creating a complex food web that supports all life on Earth.

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