Phytochemical

High school (ages 12+)
Food & Cooking

Name:

Date:

Step 1 · Read the article

Open the article and read it at the level above. Then answer the questions below in your own words.

https://smallwhale.org/articles/phytochemical

Write what each word means, using the article.

Do not copy the article. Write two things you learned, the way you would explain them to a friend.

Answers below are taken from the article’s stored facts, so they match what the student read.

1. What is the scientific classification?Naturally occurring plant compounds, often non-nutritive
2. What is the primary biological functions (plants)?Enhance survivability, reproduction, defense mechanisms
3. What are phytochemicals?Phytochemicals are natural chemicals made by plants that give fruits and veggies their bright colors and help the plants grow and stay healthy.
4. Why do plants use phytochemicals to protect themselves?Plants use phytochemicals to keep away bugs, fight germs, block sun damage, and stop bad chemicals from hurting them.

Phytochemistry: The scientific discipline focused on the chemical compounds produced by plants.
Metabolites: Intermediate or end products of metabolism, often with distinct biological functions.
Bioavailability: The proportion of a substance that enters the circulation when introduced into the body and is able to have an active effect.
Free Radicals: Unstable molecules that can damage cells, contributing to aging and disease.