A few questions concerning photosynthesis experiments

In summary, there are several factors that affect the diffusion of chlorophyll out of cells during the iodine test and the crispness of leaves after dehydration by alcohol. Boiling alcohol can speed up the diffusion process and certain materials, such as red cabbage, may dissolve better in alcohol than water. Additionally, when leaves become dehydrated, they become more brittle and break easily due to the loss of water. This happens because leaves use water for various functions, including maintaining their structure. The detection of oxygen produced from photosynthesis involves a chemical reaction where sodium hydrogencarbonate solution decomposes in water. This reaction releases oxygen, which can be detected. Stopper funnels are used to allow carbon dioxide outside the funnel to diffuse to the
  • #1
iknownth
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For the iodine test,
How does boiling alcohol speed up the diffusion of chlorophyll out of the cells?
Why does the leaf become crisp and breaks easily after it has been dehydrated by alcohol?

For the detection of oxygen produced from photosynthesis,
Why does sodium hydrogencarbonate solution decompose in water?
How does the stoppers allow CO2 outside the funnel diffuse to the aquatic plant? (I really don't get it)

For the investigation of the need for CO2 in photosynthesis,
How does potassium hydroxide absorb CO2?
 
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  • #2
You should be able to answer those by considering what you already know about the properties of materials.

i.e.
Do some things dissolve better in alchohol than water?
Does boiling generally extract pigments better than just soaking? (Think: red cabbage.)
What happens to the leaves on plants, in general, all around you, when they get dry?
Why would that be? What does a leaf do with the water it contains?
etc.

You have a question about dissolving, and another about a chemical reaction.
You know that reactions happen.

However - if you feel there is a lot of "magic black box" work in the school demo of photosynthesis, you are correct. You actually need lots more study to understand the proof. Right now you pretty much have to take the teachers word for what happens ... just like you have to take the teachers word that lime water goes cloudy when carbon-dioxide is bubbled through it.
 

1. What is the purpose of conducting photosynthesis experiments?

The purpose of conducting photosynthesis experiments is to understand the process of photosynthesis, which is the conversion of light energy into chemical energy by plants. These experiments can also help scientists study the factors that affect photosynthesis, such as light intensity, carbon dioxide levels, and temperature.

2. What materials are needed for a photosynthesis experiment?

The materials needed for a photosynthesis experiment may include a plant, water, a light source, carbon dioxide, and a container to hold the plant. Other materials may be needed depending on the specific experiment, such as a pH meter, a spectrophotometer, or different types of plants.

3. How do you measure the rate of photosynthesis in an experiment?

The rate of photosynthesis can be measured by monitoring the production of oxygen, the consumption of carbon dioxide, or the production of carbohydrates by the plant. This can be done using various methods, such as using a dissolved oxygen probe, a gas sensor, or a colorimetric assay for carbohydrates.

4. What are the variables that can affect the outcome of a photosynthesis experiment?

The variables that can affect the outcome of a photosynthesis experiment include light intensity, carbon dioxide levels, temperature, water availability, and the type of plant being used. Other factors such as the age and health of the plant, the type of soil, and the time of day can also have an impact on the results.

5. How can photosynthesis experiments be applied in real life?

Photosynthesis experiments can be applied in real life in various ways, such as in agriculture to maximize crop growth, in environmental studies to understand the impact of climate change on plant productivity, and in biotechnology to develop more efficient and sustainable methods of producing food and energy. These experiments also help us better understand the role of plants in our ecosystem and how they can be used to mitigate the effects of pollution and global warming.

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