Photosynthesis

Photosynthesis

The process by which green plants, algae, and some bacteria convert sunlight into chemical energy in the form of glucose.

Overall equation for photosynthesis

6CO2 + 6H2O + light → C6H12O6 + 6O2.

Light-dependent Reactions

Reactions that occur in the thylakoid membranes, converting light energy into chemical energy (ATP and NADPH) and releasing oxygen.

Calvin Cycle

The light-independent reactions that convert CO2 into glucose using ATP and NADPH in the stroma.

Importance of photosynthesis

It provides oxygen for respiration and forms the basis of the food chain.

Thylakoid Membranes

Locations where light-dependent reactions of photosynthesis occur.

Stroma

The fluid-filled space surrounding the thylakoids in chloroplasts, where the Calvin Cycle takes place.

ATP

A molecule that stores and transfers energy within cells, produced during light-dependent reactions.

NADPH

An electron carrier that provides high-energy electrons for the Calvin Cycle, produced during light-dependent reactions.

Chemical energy

Energy stored in the bonds of chemical compounds, like glucose formed in photosynthesis.