Photosynthesis Vocab

Calvin Cycle

second stage of photosynthesis in which carbon atoms from carbon dioxide are combined, using the energy in ATP and NADPH, to make glucose

Carbon Cycle

interconnected pathways through which carbon is recycled through the biotic and abiotic components of the biosphere

Chlorophyll

Green pigment in a chloroplast that absorbs sunlight in the light reactions to photosynthesis

Chloroplast

Organelle in the cells of plants and algae where photosynthesis takes place

Electromagnetic Spectrum

includes energy from long wavelengths (radiowaves), through visible lights, all the way to short - wavelength X- Rays and gamma waves

Greenhouse Effect

natural feature of Earth’s atmosphere that occurs when gases in the atmosphere radiate the suns heat back down to Earth’s surface, making Earth’s temperature far warmer than it otherwise would be. This process is crucial for maintaining the planet's climate and supporting life.

Light Reactions

First stage of photosynthesis in which light energy from the sun is captured and changed into chemical energy that is stored in ATP and NADPH

Paper Chromatography

a technique used to separate and analyze a mixture. Simple paper chromatography for example can be used to separate a color mixture

Photosystem

a group of molecules, including chlorophyll, in the thylakoid membrane if a chloroplast that captures light energy.

Photosynthesis

Process of using energy in sunlight to make food (glucose).

Pigment

A substance that gives color to materials. In biology, pigments are molecules that absorb certain wavelengths of light and reflect others, which is why they appear colored to our eyes.

Stroma

Space outside the thylakoid membranes of a chloroplast where the Calvin Cycle of photosynthesis takes place.

Thylakoids

Are membrane-bound compartments inside chloroplasts

Wavelength

to the distance between consecutive points that are in phase on a wave, such as from crest to crest or through to through.