November 16, 2022
Scientists from Hokkaido University, Japan, have created a thin film coating that can be used on plants to expedite their growth. During the process of photo-synthesis, visible light is converted into energy by plants. Apart from visible light, the sun also emits ultra-violet (UV) light.
Scientists made use of a europium-based wave-length-converting material to prepare a coating for leaves. This coating transforms UV light into red light, giving plants extra visible light that they can use for photosynthesis. Scientists hope that speeding up plant growth can solve issues of food supply worldwide.
Did You Know?
The small holes through which plants absorb carbon dioxide (CO2) for the process of photosynthesis are called stomata.
REFLECTION: Light Equals Life!
In your own words, explain how plants use sunlight.
