Photosynthesis Review

Front

What is photosynthesis?

Back

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.

Front

What are the two main stages of photosynthesis?

Back

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

Front

Where do the light-dependent reactions occur?

Back

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

Front

What is the primary function of photosystem I?

Back

Photosystem I absorbs light energy and transfers it to electrons, ultimately helping to produce NADPH.

Front

What is the primary function of photosystem II?

Back

Photosystem II absorbs light energy, splits water molecules, and generates ATP and oxygen.

Front

What is the role of ATP synthase in photosynthesis?

Back

ATP synthase is an enzyme that synthesizes ATP from ADP and inorganic phosphate, using the energy from the flow of H⁺ ions across the thylakoid membrane.

Front

What is the Calvin cycle?

Back

The Calvin cycle is a series of biochemical reactions that take place in the stroma of chloroplasts, where carbon dioxide is fixed into glucose.

Front

What is the significance of chlorophyll in photosynthesis?

Back

Chlorophyll is the green pigment in plants that absorbs light energy, primarily in the blue and red wavelengths, and is essential for photosynthesis.

Front

What are autotrophs?

Back

Autotrophs are organisms that produce their own food through photosynthesis or chemosynthesis, such as plants and algae.

Front

What are heterotrophs?

Back

Heterotrophs are organisms that cannot produce their own food and must consume other organisms for energy, such as animals and fungi.