PHOTOSYNTHESIS I: THE HILL REACTION

Using this kit, students carry out a partial process of photosynthesis known as the Hill Reaction, which is the proteolysis of water in isolated chloroplasts. The splitting of water with the evolution of oxygen and the release of hydrogen is measurable in the course of the reaction by the bleaching of the hydrogen acceptor using a spectrophotometer or visual examination. The Hill Reaction is run in the light and in the dark to demonstrate the light dependence of the reaction. Required, but not included: centrifuge, blender, spectrophotometer (optional), a light source, glassware, and fresh spinach or lettuce leaves. Designed for 24 students working in six groups of four.
Grades 9-14