Important Concepts and Theories in Plant Physiology and Metabolism


- The process by which plants convert sunlight, water, and carbon dioxide into glucose and oxygen.
- Includes light-dependent reactions (occur in thylakoid membranes) and light-independent reactions (occur in stroma).
- Key concepts: chlorophyll, photosystems, electron transport chain, Calvin cycle.


- The process by which plants break down glucose to release energy for cellular activities.
- Includes glycolysis, Krebs cycle, and oxidative phosphorylation.
- Key concepts: aerobic and anaerobic respiration, ATP production, electron transport chain.


- The loss of water vapor from plant tissues through stomata.
- Regulated by factors like temperature, humidity, wind, and plant structure.
- Key concepts: stomata, guard cells, transpiration pull, cohesion-tension theory.


- Chemical messengers that regulate plant growth, development, and responses to stimuli.
- Key hormones: auxins, gibberellins, cytokinins, abscisic acid, ethylene.
- Key concepts: plant growth regulators, photoperiodism, senescence.


- The study of essential mineral elements required for plant growth and development.
- Key concepts: macronutrients (nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium), micronutrients, nutrient uptake, nutrient deficiency symptoms.


- The study of plant growth and development in response to light.
- Key concepts: photoreceptors (phytochromes, cryptochromes), photoperiodism, phototropism, photomorphogenic responses.


- The processes by which plants grow and undergo morphological changes.
- Key concepts: cell division, cell elongation, cell differentiation, meristems, plant hormones.


- The production of compounds not directly involved in plant growth and development.
- Includes production of alkaloids, terpenoids, phenolics, and flavonoids.
- Key concepts: biosynthesis pathways, role of secondary metabolites in defense and communication.

These concepts and theories form the foundation of plant physiology and metabolism. Understanding these topics will provide a comprehensive understanding of how plants function, adapt, and respond to their environment.