photosynthesis

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, and releasing oxygen as a by-product.

Front

Where does photosynthesis occur in plant cells?

Back

Photosynthesis occurs in the chloroplasts of plant cells.

Front

What are the two main stages of photosynthesis?

Back

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

Front

What is the role of chlorophyll in photosynthesis?

Back

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

Front

What is the equation for photosynthesis?

Back

6CO2 + 6H2O + light energy → C6H12O6 + 6O2.

Front

What are thylakoids?

Back

Thylakoids are membrane-bound structures within chloroplasts that contain chlorophyll and are the site of the light-dependent reactions of photosynthesis.

Front

What is the function of RuBisCo in photosynthesis?

Back

RuBisCo (Ribulose Bisphosphate Carboxylase) is an enzyme that catalyzes the first step of the Calvin cycle, fixing carbon dioxide from the atmosphere into organic molecules.

Front

What is the significance of the light-dependent reactions?

Back

The light-dependent reactions convert solar energy into chemical energy in the form of ATP and NADPH, which are then used in the Calvin cycle.

Front

What is the Calvin cycle?

Back

The Calvin cycle, also known as the light-independent reactions, is the process by which carbon dioxide is fixed into glucose using ATP and NADPH produced in the light-dependent reactions.

Front

What is the role of water in photosynthesis?

Back

Water is split during the light-dependent reactions to provide electrons, protons, and oxygen; the electrons replace those lost by chlorophyll.