TED-ED: Nature's smallest factory: The Calvin cycle - Cathy Symington

The video explains how energy from food is derived from plants through photosynthesis, which consists of two main steps: energy storage in ATP and the Calvin cycle. The Calvin cycle is a sustainable process that converts CO2 into sugar using a series of molecular transformations and recycling. This cycle is efficient due to its ability to reuse materials, creating a continuous production line that supports life by converting sunlight and carbon into energy.

What is the primary role of carbon in the energy production process of plants?

• It is a byproduct of the Calvin cycle.

• It provides the energy needed for photosynthesis.

• It serves as the chemical backbone for sugar formation.

• It acts as a storage molecule for energy.

Which enzyme is responsible for combining CO2 with RUBP in the Calvin cycle?

• Phosphoglycerate kinase

• ATP synthase

• NADPH oxidase

• Rubisco

What is the role of NADPH in the Calvin cycle?

• It converts CO2 into glucose.

• It provides energy to the cycle.

• It affixes hydrogen to PGA chains.

• It splits RUBP into smaller molecules.

How many G3P molecules are needed to form one glucose molecule?

• Two

• Twelve

• Four

• Six

Why is it necessary to regenerate RUBP in the Calvin cycle?

• To store excess energy

• To maintain the cycle's continuity

• To increase carbon dioxide intake

• To produce more ATP

What is the significance of cycles in biological processes?

• They reduce the need for sunlight.

• They increase the speed of reactions.

• They allow for the linear use of resources.

• They enhance efficiency and resource reuse.

How do cycles contribute to the sustainability of biological production?

• By creating waste products

• By using resources only once

• By relying solely on external energy sources

• By repeatedly reusing and rebuilding ingredients