Photosynthesis - Overview

Front

What is photosynthesis?

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Photosynthesis is the process by which green plants, algae, and some bacteria convert light energy into chemical energy in the form of glucose, using carbon dioxide and water.

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What are the main products of photosynthesis?

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The main products of photosynthesis are glucose (G3P) and oxygen.

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What is the role of chlorophyll in photosynthesis?

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Chlorophyll is a pigment found in the chloroplasts of plants that absorbs light energy, primarily from the sun, which is essential for photosynthesis.

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What are the two main stages of photosynthesis?

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The two main stages of photosynthesis are the light-dependent reactions and the Calvin cycle (light-independent reactions).

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Where do the light-dependent reactions occur?

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The light-dependent reactions occur in the thylakoid membranes of the chloroplasts.

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What is the Calvin cycle?

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The Calvin cycle is a series of biochemical reactions that take place in the stroma of chloroplasts, where carbon dioxide is converted into glucose using ATP and NADPH produced in the light-dependent reactions.

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What is the significance of G3P in photosynthesis?

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G3P (glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate) is a three-carbon sugar produced in the Calvin cycle that can be used to form glucose and other carbohydrates.

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What is the waste product of photosynthesis?

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Oxygen is the waste product of photosynthesis, released into the atmosphere during the light-dependent reactions.

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How many ATP molecules are produced in the light-dependent reactions?

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The number of ATP molecules produced can vary, but typically, several ATP molecules are generated to be used in the Calvin cycle.

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What is the role of water in photosynthesis?

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Water is a reactant in photosynthesis that provides electrons and protons during the light-dependent reactions and is split to release oxygen.