Honors biology 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.

Front

What is the role of chlorophyll in photosynthesis?

Back

Chlorophyll is a green pigment found in plants that absorbs light energy, primarily from the blue and red wavelengths, and reflects green light, which is why most plants appear green.

Front

Where does photosynthesis occur in plants?

Back

Photosynthesis occurs primarily in the leaves of plants, specifically in the mesophyll 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 happens during the light-dependent reactions?

Back

During the light-dependent reactions, light energy is captured and used to produce ATP and NADPH, while water is split to release oxygen.

Front

Where do the light-independent reactions take place?

Back

The light-independent reactions take place in the stroma of the chloroplasts.

Front

What is the primary product of the light-independent reactions?

Back

The primary product of the light-independent reactions is glucose, which is synthesized from carbon dioxide.

Front

What is the function of the thylakoid membrane?

Back

The thylakoid membrane houses the components necessary for the light-dependent reactions, including chlorophyll and electron transport chains.

Front

What is the significance of the Calvin cycle?

Back

The Calvin cycle is significant because it uses ATP and NADPH produced in the light-dependent reactions to convert carbon dioxide into glucose.

Front

What is the equation for photosynthesis?

Back

The equation for photosynthesis is: 6CO2 + 6H2O + light energy → C6H12O6 + 6O2.