Photosynthesis is the process through which leaves use solar energy to convert carbon dioxide (which they have absorbed) and water into chemical compounds that function as food for the tree. Through this process, an important byproduct is created: oxygen. It’s difficult to understate just how important trees are to life on this planet. Planting and maintaining trees is a great way to make air cleaner and more breathable. When trees are healthy, they do the best job of photosynthesizing. To help your trees attain optimal health, it’s worthwhile to enlist the services of an experienced arborist. At Hernandez Tree Experts, we provide top-quality arborist services in the greater Plano, TX area. Here are three fascinating facts about photosynthesis.
As photosynthesis takes place, cellular structures called chloroplasts capture solar energy and then turn it into chemical energy. In chloroplasts, there are molecules called chlorophyll, which contain green pigments. Chlorophyll absorbs all wavelengths of light, except for green. Thus, leaves appear green because they reflect only wavelengths of green light.
While chlorophyll plays a major role in determining the color of leaves, there are also other pigments in tree leaves that don’t come from chlorophyll. As the season changes to fall, photosynthesis slows down and not as much chlorophyll is generated. When there’s less chlorophyll to reflect green light, other pigments become more visible, allowing colors like red and orange to put on their brightly-leafed display each autumn.
Trees and other plants play a major role in producing oxygen via photosynthesis. But algae actually have an even bigger role. Algae are classified as “protists,” which are organisms that fall outside the realm of plants. According to a UC Berkeley study, about 70% of oxygen in Earth’s atmosphere is generated by oceanic algae.
When you need an
arborist in Plano, TX and the surrounding area, contact Hernandez Tree Experts at (469) 214-5963. Feel free to give us a call today to request a free arborist estimate in Plano!
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