Photosynthesis and Light Reactions

Flashcards covering key terms and concepts related to the light reactions and photosynthesis processes.

Light Reactions

The initial phase of photosynthesis where light energy is captured and converted to chemical energy.

Photosystem II

The first photosystem in the light reactions that absorbs light energy to split water molecules, releasing oxygen and transferring electrons.

Photosystem I

The second photosystem in the light reactions that absorbs light and ultimately reduces NADP+ to NADPH.

NADPH

An electron carrier involved in photosynthesis, produced in the light reactions and used in the Calvin cycle.

ATP Synthase

An enzyme that synthesizes ATP from ADP and inorganic phosphate as protons flow through it, utilizing the proton gradient.

Chemiosmosis

The process by which ATP is produced in both photosynthesis and cellular respiration, using a proton gradient.

Calvin Cycle

The series of reactions that convert carbon dioxide into glucose, occurring in the stroma of chloroplasts.

RuBisCO

The enzyme that catalyzes the first step of the Calvin cycle, responsible for carbon fixation.

Photorespiration

A process that occurs when RuBisCO binds to oxygen instead of carbon dioxide, leading to reduced photosynthetic efficiency.

C4 Plants

Plants that utilize a different pathway for carbon fixation, allowing them to minimize photorespiration and conserve water.

CAM Photosynthesis

A water-efficient photosynthetic process in which stomata open at night and close during the day to minimize water loss.