What is the Difference Between Plants Grown in Light and Dark?

The main difference between plants grown in light and dark conditions lies in their growth patterns, leaf development, and photosynthesis rates. Here are some key differences:

1. Growth: Plants grown in light tend to have more developed leaves, rigid cell walls, and are not as flimsy as plants grown in dark conditions. Dark-grown plants have a lankier appearance due to increased stem elongation.
2. Leaf Development: Light plants have thicker leaves compared to dark plants, which helps prevent water loss by transpiration and facilitates light penetration.
3. Photosynthesis: Plants grown in light have a higher rate of photosynthesis, while plants grown in dark conditions rely on stored chemical energy within their cells (proteins, carbohydrates) for growth.
4. Mesophyll Layer: Plants grown in light have a thicker mesophyll layer with 2-3 palisade cellular layers, while dark-grown plants have a thinner mesophyll layer.
5. Internode Length: Light-grown plants generally have shorter internodes compared to dark-grown plants.
6. Direction of Growth: Plants grow toward light sources through a process called phototropism, so light plants tend to bend and grow in the direction of the light source.

In summary, plants grown in light conditions have more developed leaves, rigid cell walls, thicker mesophyll layers, and better photosynthesis rates, while dark-grown plants have more elongated stems, thinner mesophyll layers, and rely on stored chemical energy for growth.

Comparative Table: Plants Grown in Light vs Dark

Plants grown in light and dark conditions exhibit different characteristics. Here is a table summarizing the differences between plants grown in light and dark:

In summary, plants grown in light conditions tend to have larger, thinner leaves with shorter internodes, dark green color, and better branching. In contrast, plants grown in dark conditions have smaller, thicker leaves, longer internodes, lighter green color, and spindly stems.