Question

Many English words and word parts can be traced back to Latin and Greek. By learning what parts of words mean, you can figure out the meanings of bigger words that you might not know at first glance. Look at the chart below, and then answer the question.

Latin & Greek
Word Part Meaning Latin & Greek
Word Part Meaning
a without paleo ancient
anthro humans; people path feeling
bio life phil love
contra against phon sound
dict to say photo light
graph picture poly many
hemi half pseudo false
logue talk or a speech scope to see
micro small script to write
mis to hate somna sleep
mono one; alone spir to breathe
neo new tele from a distance
pac peace terras earth
1
Plants use the process of photosynthesis to turn carbon dioxide, water, and minerals into the oxygen that we humans breathe.

Judging from your knowledge of Greek and Latin roots, you know that the word "photosynthesis" in the passage above has to do with
A.
pollution.
B.
minerals.
C.
bacteria.
D.
light.

Answer 1

D. light — "photo" means light, and "synthesis" means putting together, so photosynthesis uses light.