Oil can negatively impact photosynthesis primarily by reducing transpiration and potentially disrupting chloroplast function and inhibiting processes due to end-product accumulation.
Here's a more detailed breakdown:
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Reduced Transpiration: Oil blocks stomata (pores on leaves) and intercellular spaces, hindering the plant's ability to transpire. Transpiration is crucial for water and nutrient transport, which are vital for photosynthesis. When transpiration is reduced, the supply of water and nutrients to the photosynthetic cells decreases, thereby slowing down or inhibiting photosynthesis.
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Chloroplast Membrane Disruption: Oil exposure might disrupt the membranes of chloroplasts, the organelles where photosynthesis takes place. Damage to these membranes can impair the light-dependent reactions of photosynthesis.
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Inhibition by End-Product Accumulation: Reduced transpiration can lead to a buildup of photosynthetic end-products (like sugars) within the leaves. This accumulation can inhibit the enzymes involved in the photosynthetic pathway, slowing down the entire process through feedback inhibition.
In summary, oil interferes with photosynthesis through several mechanisms, primarily involving reduced transpiration, potential chloroplast damage, and end-product inhibition.
