15_Photosynthesis.pdf

What is photosynthesis?

The process by which plants, some bacteria, and protistans convert sunlight energy into glucose from carbon dioxide and water.

Photosynthesis word equation

Carbon dioxide + Water → Glucose + Oxygen

Function of chlorophyll in photosynthesis

Chlorophyll absorbs light energy which is then used to convert carbon dioxide and water into glucose.

What are accessory pigments?

Pigments such as chlorophyll b, xanthophylls, and carotenoids that capture additional light energy not absorbed by chlorophyll a.

Key role of stomata in leaves

Stomata allow the exchange of gases; carbon dioxide enters and oxygen exits the leaf.

What is photolysis in photosynthesis?

The splitting of water molecules into oxygen, hydrogen ions, and electrons during the light-dependent reactions.

Differences between light-dependent and light-independent reactions

Light-dependent reactions require light to produce ATP and NADPH, while light-independent reactions use these products to synthesize carbohydrates.

What is the function of thylakoids?

Thylakoids are the structural units of photosynthesis, housing chlorophyll and involved in the light-dependent reactions.

What is the Z scheme?

The pathway of electron flow during photosynthesis involving Photosystem II and Photosystem I.

Role of ATP in photosynthesis

ATP provides energy for the conversion of carbon dioxide into glucose in light-independent reactions.

What is cyclic phosphorylation?

A process that generates additional ATP without producing NADPH, utilizing only Photosystem I.

Describe the Calvin Cycle

A series of reactions in the light-independent stage of photosynthesis where carbon dioxide is fixed into carbohydrates.

Factors affecting the rate of photosynthesis

Light intensity, carbon dioxide concentration, and temperature are the main limiting factors.

Optimal wavelengths for PSI and PSII

PSI absorbs energy most efficiently at 700 nm, while PSII is at 680 nm.

What is carbon fixation?

The process of incorporating carbon dioxide into organic compounds during photosynthesis.