Photosynthesis and Light Reactions

These flashcards cover vocabulary and key concepts related to photosynthesis, specifically focusing on the structure and function of chloroplasts, the light reactions, and the Calvin cycle.

Granum

The technical name for a stack of thylakoids in chloroplasts.

Thylakoid

A membrane-bound compartment inside chloroplasts where the light reactions of photosynthesis occur.

Calvin Cycle

The second half of photosynthesis, which is light-independent and occurs in the stroma of chloroplasts.

Light Reactions

The first half of photosynthesis, dependent on light, occurring in the thylakoid membranes.

NADPH

An electron carrier molecule involved in photosynthesis that carries hydrogen and electrons.

Stroma

The fluid-filled space inside chloroplasts where the Calvin cycle takes place.

Inputs of Light Dependent Reactions

Light, water, and NADP+.

Outputs of Light Dependent Reactions

Oxygen, ATP, and NADPH.

G3P

Glyceraldehyde 3-phosphate, an intermediate product in the Calvin cycle that eventually forms glucose.

Electromagnetic Spectrum

The range of all types of electromagnetic radiation, including visible light.

Relationship between wavelength and energy

Shorter wavelengths have higher energy, while longer wavelengths have lower energy.

Gamma Rays

High energy electromagnetic waves used in medical treatments and sterilization processes.

X-rays

A form of electromagnetic radiation used for imaging bones and tissues, which can be harmful in large doses.

ATP

A molecule that carries energy within cells, produced during light-dependent reactions.

Carbon Fixation

The process of converting CO2 into organic compounds during the Calvin cycle.

Reduction Phase

Stage in the Calvin cycle where ATP and NADPH are used to produce G3P.

Cyclic nature of Calvin Cycle

The process that requires multiple turns to produce sufficient G3P for glucose synthesis.

Organic Molecule Synthesis

The process by which plants convert light energy into chemical energy stored in sugars.