Life Processes in Plants - How Do Plants Grow?

Photosynthesis is the primary process for growth, where plants convert light energy into chemical energy: $6CO_{2} + 6H_{2}O \xrightarrow[Chlorophyll]{Sunlight} C_{6}H_{12}O_{6} + 6O_{2}$.

Chlorophyll, located in the chloroplasts, is the green pigment that absorbs solar energy required for the synthesis of food.

Stomata are tiny pores on the underside of leaves, guarded by 'Guard Cells', which facilitate the exchange of gases like $CO_{2}$ and $O_{2}$.

Plants require essential nutrients from the soil, categorized into Macronutrients like Nitrogen ($N$), Phosphorus ($P$), and Potassium ($K$), and Micronutrients like Iron ($Fe$) and Manganese ($Mn$).

The transport of water and minerals from roots to leaves occurs through a vascular tissue called Xylem, driven by the 'Transpirational Pull'.

The transport of synthesized food (glucose) from leaves to other parts of the plant occurs through the Phloem via a process called translocation.

Transpiration is the evaporation of water from the leaves, which creates a suction force and helps in regulating the plant's temperature.

Heterotrophic modes of nutrition in plants include Parasitic (e.g., Cuscuta), Saprotrophic (e.g., Fungi), and Insectivorous (e.g., Pitcher Plant) for nitrogen-deficient environments.