AP Photosynthesis

Front

What are the light reactions in photosynthesis?

Back

The light reactions are the first stage of photosynthesis, occurring in the thylakoid membranes of chloroplasts, where sunlight is converted into chemical energy in the form of ATP and NADPH.

Front

What is the Calvin cycle?

Back

The Calvin cycle is the second stage of photosynthesis, occurring in the stroma of chloroplasts, where ATP and NADPH from the light reactions are used to convert carbon dioxide into glucose.

Front

What is the relationship between light reactions and the Calvin cycle?

Back

The light reactions provide ATP and NADPH to the Calvin cycle, and the Calvin cycle returns ADP, Pi, and NADP+ to the light reactions.

Front

What is the primary function of cyclic electron flow?

Back

The primary function of cyclic electron flow is to produce additional ATP.

Front

What is the primary function of the Calvin cycle?

Back

The primary function of the Calvin cycle is to produce simple sugars from carbon dioxide.

Front

What is the difference between photosynthesis and cellular respiration?

Back

Photosynthesis is an anabolic process that converts light energy into chemical energy, while cellular respiration is a catabolic process that breaks down glucose to release energy.

Front

What are CAM plants?

Back

CAM (Crassulacean Acid Metabolism) plants are a type of plant that fix CO2 into organic acids during the night to reduce water loss during the day.

Front

Why do CAM plants keep their stomata closed during the day?

Back

CAM plants keep their stomata closed during the day to minimize water loss, as they fix CO2 at night when temperatures are cooler.

Front

What is the role of ATP in photosynthesis?

Back

ATP provides the energy required for various biochemical reactions in both the light reactions and the Calvin cycle.

Front

What is the role of NADPH in photosynthesis?

Back

NADPH acts as a reducing agent, providing the electrons needed for the reduction of carbon compounds in the Calvin cycle.