AP Biology Enzymes & Photosynthesis

Front

What is ATP and why is it important for cellular function?

Back

ATP (Adenosine Triphosphate) is the primary energy carrier in cells. It releases energy when hydrolyzed, which powers various cellular processes.

Front

What is the role of enzymes in biochemical reactions?

Back

Enzymes act as catalysts that lower the activation energy required for reactions, thus speeding up the rate of the reaction.

Front

What are the two main phases of photosynthesis?

Back

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

Front

What is produced during the light-dependent reactions of photosynthesis?

Back

The light-dependent reactions produce ATP, NADPH, and oxygen (O2) from water.

Front

What is the Calvin cycle and what does it produce?

Back

The Calvin cycle is a series of biochemical reactions that occur in the stroma of chloroplasts, producing glucose (C6H12O6) from carbon dioxide (CO2) using ATP and NADPH.

Front

What are the net products of photosynthesis?

Back

The net products of photosynthesis are glucose (C6H12O6) and oxygen (O2).

Front

How does temperature affect enzyme activity?

Back

Enzyme activity typically increases with temperature up to an optimal point, after which high temperatures can denature the enzyme, reducing its activity.

Front

What is the significance of the activation energy in chemical reactions?

Back

Activation energy is the minimum energy required for a reaction to occur. Enzymes lower this energy barrier, facilitating reactions.

Front

What is the difference between competitive and non-competitive inhibition?

Back

Competitive inhibition occurs when an inhibitor competes with the substrate for the active site, while non-competitive inhibition occurs when an inhibitor binds to an enzyme at a different site, altering its function.

Front

What is the role of chlorophyll in photosynthesis?

Back

Chlorophyll is a pigment in plants that absorbs light energy, primarily in the blue and red wavelengths, which is essential for the light-dependent reactions of photosynthesis.