Photosynthesis: Physiological and Ecological Considerations
Lincoln Taiz, Ian Max Møller, Angus Murphy, Eduardo Zeiger
Abstract
This chapter discusses photosynthesis and refers to the rate of net photosynthesis, the difference between photosynthetic carbon assimilation, and the loss of CO<sub>2</sub> via photorespiration and mitochondrial respiration in the light. It focuses on how naturally occurring variation in light and temperature influences photosynthesis in leaves and how leaves in turn adjust or acclimate to such variation. It also explores how atmospheric CO<sub>2</sub> and temperature influence photosynthesis, which is an important consideration in a world where CO<sub>2</sub> concentrations and temperature are rapidly increasing as humans continue to burn fossil fuels for energy production. The chapter analyzes the leaf anatomy that is highly specialized for light absorption, noting how some plants maximize light absorption by solar tracking. It highlights the carbon isotope ratios of leaves that can be used to distinguish photosynthetic pathway differences among different plant species.