ABSTRACT
This chapter describes the relationships between photosynthetic reactions and chlorophyll fluorescence signals revealed by JIP tests, including their practical applications. This discussion is based on the theory of energy flow in thylakoid membranes. This theory allows researchers to create simple algebraic equations expressing the equilibrium between the inflow and outflow of total energy for each analyzed set of photosynthetic pigments and to obtain information about the likely fate of absorbed energy. The JIP test relies on readings of chlorophyll a fluorescence signals and their analysis, and it provides detailed information regarding the structure and functions of the photosynthetic apparatus. The OJIP analysis expands the understanding of the relationship between the structure and function of the photosynthetic apparatus and supports quick-assessments of plant vitality. Finally, the chapter explains how the JIP test helps to estimate the likelihood of energy flow between individual components of photosystem II (PSII).
