GLOSSARY

Allelopathy

The way certain plants prevent other plants from growing too close to them. This is usually done using chemicals that the plant produces and release into its surroundings.

Chlorophyll

A green chemical in the leaves of plants that helps with photosynthesis.

Cell Division

The division of one old cell into two new ones.

Decompose

When living things are broken down and returned to the soil as nutrients.An example of matter decomposing can be seen in the compost heap in a garden.

Digest

This is how our body gets energy and nutrients from the food we eat.

Herbicides

Toxic chemicals that are used to kill unwanted plants and weeds.

Nutrients

Vitamins and minerals that we and all other living things need to live and grow.

Pesticides

Toxic chemicals that are used to kill insects, or rodents.

Photosynthesis

A process that goes on inside of a plant's leaf which turns energy from the sun, water, and carbon dioxide (from the air), into food and energy for the plant.

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