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I. Chapter Summary:
This chapter focuses on the essential life processes in plants, including how plants carry out nutrition, respiration, transportation, and excretion. It explains the mechanisms of photosynthesis, how plants take in oxygen and release carbon dioxide, and how water and nutrients are transported within the plant. The chapter also explores how plants remove waste products and adapt their processes to survive in different environments.
II. Key Concepts Covered:
Nutrition in Plants: Understanding autotrophic nutrition through photosynthesis; role of chlorophyll, sunlight, carbon dioxide, and water.
Respiration: Plants respire to release energy; difference between photosynthesis and respiration.
Transportation: Movement of water and minerals through xylem; transport of food through phloem.
Excretion: How plants eliminate waste materials like oxygen and other by-products.
Photosynthesis Equation: 6CO₂ + 6H₂O + light energy → C₆H₁₂O₆ + 6O₂.
Adaptations: Structural and functional modifications aiding efficient life processes.
III. Important Questions:
(A) Multiple Choice Questions (1 Mark):
Which pigment is responsible for photosynthesis in plants?
a) Carotene
b) Chlorophyll
c) Xanthophyll
d) Anthocyanin
Answer: b) ChlorophyllThrough which plant tissue does water mainly travel?
a) Phloem
b) Xylem
c) Cambium
d) Cortex
Answer: b) XylemWhich gas is released during photosynthesis?
a) Carbon dioxide
b) Oxygen
c) Nitrogen
d) Hydrogen
Answer: b) OxygenWhat type of nutrition do plants follow?
a) Heterotrophic
b) Autotrophic
c) Saprophytic
d) Parasitic
Answer: b) Autotrophic
(B) Short Answer Questions (2/3 Marks):
Write the photosynthesis equation and explain its components.
Differentiate between xylem and phloem.
Why is respiration important for plants?
How do plants excrete waste?
(C) Long Answer Questions (5 Marks):
Explain the process of photosynthesis and its significance for life on Earth.
Describe the transport of water and minerals in plants.
Discuss how plants breathe and how it differs from photosynthesis.
How do plants adapt to conserve water and perform life processes in dry conditions?
(D) HOTS (Higher Order Thinking Skills) Questions:
How would a decrease in sunlight affect the life processes of plants? Explain.
If the phloem in a plant is damaged, what impact would it have on the plant’s survival?
IV. Key Formulas/Concepts:
Photosynthesis equation:
6CO₂ + 6H₂O + light energy → C₆H₁₂O₆ + 6O₂Xylem: Transports water and minerals from roots to leaves.
Phloem: Transports food from leaves to other parts of the plant.
Respiration: Breakdown of glucose to release energy; occurs in mitochondria.
Autotrophic nutrition: Plants make their own food.
V. Deleted Portions (CBSE 2025–2026):
No portions have been deleted from this chapter as per the rationalized NCERT textbooks.
VI. Chapter-Wise Marks Bifurcation (Estimated – CBSE 2025–2026):
Unit/Chapter | Estimated Marks | Type of Questions Typically Asked |
---|---|---|
Life Processes in Plants | 8 – 10 | MCQs, Short Answer, Long Answer, HOTS |
VII. Previous Year Questions (PYQs):
2023: MCQ on the function of xylem (1 mark)
2021: Short answer on photosynthesis (3 marks)
2019: Long answer on transport in plants (5 marks)
2018: HOTS question on effects of reduced sunlight on photosynthesis (3 marks)
VIII. Real-World Application Examples to Connect with Topics:
Importance of photosynthesis in agriculture and food production.
Understanding plant respiration helps in improving crop yields.
Water transport knowledge is vital for irrigation and plant care.
Waste management in plants can inspire sustainable biological systems.
IX. Student Tips & Strategies for Success:
Use labeled diagrams to memorize plant tissues and their functions.
Practice writing the photosynthesis equation and explain its steps.
Relate theoretical concepts to real-life observations of plants around you.
Revise regularly using flashcards and practice PYQs for exam confidence.
X. Career Guidance & Exploration:
For Classes 9–10:
Foundation for careers in botany, agriculture, environmental science.
Helpful for NTSE, Olympiads, and biology competitions.
For Classes 11–12:
Essential for biology stream students preparing for NEET, medical, and research fields.
Useful for careers in biotechnology, horticulture, and ecology.
XI. Important Notes:
Always consult the latest NCERT and CBSE syllabus for updates.
Conceptual clarity in life processes is key to scoring well.
Combine theory with practical observations to strengthen understanding.