Russian Translation(s) & Details for 'photosynthesis'

English Word: photosynthesis

Key Russian Translations:

• фотосинтез [fɐtɐˈsʲintʲez] - [Formal, Scientific]

Frequency: Low in general use, but High in scientific and educational contexts, as it is a specialized term primarily encountered in biology and botany.

Difficulty: B2 (Upper-Intermediate) - Requires familiarity with scientific vocabulary and basic Russian noun declensions; suitable for learners with some exposure to technical language.

Pronunciation (Russian):

фотосинтез: [fɐtɐˈsʲintʲez]

Note on фотосинтез: The stress falls on the third syllable ("sʲintʲez"), which is a common challenge for English speakers due to the palatalized 's' sound (like 'sh' in 'she' but softer). Pronunciation may vary slightly in fast speech.

Audio: []

Meanings and Usage:

The process by which green plants and some microorganisms use sunlight to synthesize foods from carbon dioxide and water.

Translation(s) & Context:

• фотосинтез - Used in scientific, educational, and formal contexts to describe the biological process, such as in biology textbooks or lectures.

Usage Examples:

• В процессе фотосинтеза растения превращают солнечный свет в энергию.

  In the process of photosynthesis, plants convert sunlight into energy.

• Фотосинтез является основой для жизни на Земле, так как он производит кислород.

  Photosynthesis is the basis for life on Earth, as it produces oxygen.

• Учёные изучают, как изменить фотосинтез в сельскохозяйственных культурах для повышения урожая.

  Scientists are studying how to modify photosynthesis in agricultural crops to increase yields.

• Без фотосинтеза цепочка питания в экосистемах была бы нарушена.

  Without photosynthesis, the food chain in ecosystems would be disrupted.

• Фотосинтез происходит в хлоропластах листьев, где происходит поглощение CO2.

  Photosynthesis occurs in the chloroplasts of leaves, where CO2 is absorbed.

Russian Forms/Inflections:

"Фотосинтез" is a masculine noun in the third declension group in Russian. It follows standard patterns for inanimate masculine nouns, with changes based on case and number. As a scientific term, it is typically used in singular form.

Note: The plural forms are rarely used, as the concept is often discussed in general terms.

Russian Synonyms/Antonyms:

• Synonyms: фотосинтетический процесс (photosynthetic process) - More descriptive, used in detailed scientific explanations; ассимиляция (assimilation) - In a broader biological context, but less precise.
• Antonyms: респирация (respiration) - The opposite process in terms of energy production in organisms.

Related Phrases:

• Процесс фотосинтеза - The process of photosynthesis; used to explain the mechanism in educational settings.
• Фотосинтез в растениях - Photosynthesis in plants; common in biology discussions.
• Эффективность фотосинтеза - Efficiency of photosynthesis; relevant in environmental and agricultural contexts.

Usage Notes:

This term directly corresponds to the English "photosynthesis" and is used exclusively in formal, scientific, or educational contexts in Russian. It is not part of everyday conversation, so learners should note its domain-specific nature. When using "фотосинтез," ensure proper declension based on sentence structure, and pair it with verbs like "происходить" (to occur) or "влиять" (to influence) for natural phrasing. If multiple translations exist, "фотосинтез" is the most precise and standard choice.

Common Errors:

• Mispronouncing the word by placing stress on the wrong syllable, e.g., saying [fɐˈtɐsʲintʲez] instead of [fɐtɐˈsʲintʲez]. Correct: Focus on the third syllable for accurate pronunciation.
• Confusing it with "резpiration" (respiration) in sentences, e.g., incorrectly using "фотосинтез" to describe breathing processes. Error example: "Фотосинтез происходит в легких" (Wrong: Photosynthesis occurs in the lungs). Correct: "Респирация происходит в легких" (Respiration occurs in the lungs). Explanation: These are distinct biological processes.
• Overusing the plural form unnecessarily, e.g., "фотосинтезы" in singular contexts. Correct: Stick to singular unless discussing multiple instances explicitly.

Cultural Notes:

In Russian culture and education, "фотосинтез" is a fundamental concept taught in school biology curricula, reflecting the emphasis on scientific literacy in the Russian educational system. It underscores Russia's historical contributions to biology, such as through scientists like Kliment Timiryazev, who advanced research on photosynthesis, linking it to national pride in scientific achievements.

Related Concepts:

• хлорофилл (chlorophyll)
• респирация (respiration)
• ассимиляция (assimilation)
• экосистема (ecosystem)