Assignment

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1- In two paragraphs list and describe the major steps involved in photosynthesis.

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1- The Calvin cycle is the second part of the photosynthesis reaction. Photosynthesis stores energy from the sun and carbon from the air together in the high-energy molecule, glucose. Like any factory the Calvin cycle needs energy to create glucose. Where does this energy come from?

2- Rubisco makes up about 15% of the total protein in a chloroplast. Why might chloroplasts have evolved to have so much of this one enzyme?

3- In addition to being highly abundant in chloroplasts, Rubisco is the most abundant enzyme on the planet. Why is Rubisco the most abundant enzyme and why is this important?

4- Temperature and light intensity are two factors that affect the rate of photosynthesis. Which of these factors would you expect to have the greatest effect on the rate at which the Calvin cycle proceeds, and why?

5- Many significant areas of our planet are becoming less green and more areas are being built on (desertification, urbanization, industrialization). More and more areas of the planet are losing their capacity to support plant life. What risks are we facing by making our planet less green? And what can we do to help make our planet more green?

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1- How do phytochromes work within the plant cell?

2- What is more important when a plant is deciding when to create blooming flowers: the time of day or the season of the year? Why?

3- Circadian rhythms are especially important in the beginning of a plant’s life. Until their phytochromes perceive the presence of light, seed sprouts grow tall and long, and do not produce any green pigment. As soon as they reach light, they begin to produce green pigment and broader leaves. What are the advantages of producing green pigment only after the presence of light?

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1- Do you eat organic food? Why? or Why not?

2- Have you ever thought about the world through the perspective of a crop or a farmed animal? What conclusions did you come up with?

3- Do some research. What is the most abundant plant on the planet? How did this happen?

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1- Humans have cut and frayed the woven tapestry of Earth’s biodiversity. List and describe three ways Humans have negatively impacted biodiversity.

2- Correctly use the following words in a well-written, scientifically correct paragraph. Be sure to clearly distinguish the differences between each of them and how they intertwine! Be sure to provide examples. Species diversity, biological diversity, ecosystem diversity, genetic diversity.

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1- Think about your own home or school and identify the sources of “throwaway” plastic. Which of these could be easily eliminated, if any?

2- According to Moore, why is it impossible to obtain certified organic wild-caught fish?

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1- Take some time to read and research some great information about vitamins in the dig deeper section and answer this question- Do we need to take vitamin supplements for optimal health or are we wasting money on vitamin pills? In a 2-3 paragraphs explain if and when a person might need a vitamin supplement and when it might be a waste of money or even be harmful to your health.

2- At the bottom of the dig deeper section there is a link to a cool graphic from information is beautiful. Discover the scientific evidence for popular dietary supplements and Describe 5 supplements that might improve your health and vitality.

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1- The American diet is said to be increasingly energy-rich but nutrient-poor. Use the links you find in the Dig Deeper section to type a complete paragraph on how a person can be overweight but undernourished, and how going back to the basics with nutrient dense foods can improve the health of many Americans.