Electromagnetic spectrum

Definition

The electromagnetic spectrum is the range of all types of electromagnetic radiation, from gamma rays to radio waves. It includes visible light, which is crucial for photosynthesis in plants.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Visible light, a part of the electromagnetic spectrum, is used by plants to drive photosynthesis.
2. Chlorophyll absorbs light most efficiently in the blue and red parts of the electromagnetic spectrum.
3. Different pigments in the chloroplast absorb different wavelengths of light within the electromagnetic spectrum.
4. The energy from photons in visible light excites electrons in chlorophyll during the light-dependent reactions.
5. Ultraviolet (UV) and infrared (IR) parts of the spectrum are not effectively utilized by most photosynthetic organisms.

Review Questions

• Which part of the electromagnetic spectrum is primarily used by plants for photosynthesis?
• How does chlorophyll interact with different wavelengths in the electromagnetic spectrum?
• Why are certain parts of the electromagnetic spectrum not used effectively by photosynthetic organisms?

Related terms

Chlorophyll:

A green pigment found in chloroplasts that absorbs light energy for photosynthesis.

Photons: Particles representing a quantum of light or other electromagnetic radiation.

Photosystem:

A complex within chloroplasts that absorbs light and initiates electron transfer during photosynthesis.