Photosynthesis

ATP

A molecule that stores and provides energy for cellular processes. It is broken down to ADP + P to release energy.

Calvin cycle

A series of reactions in photosynthesis that converts carbon dioxide into glucose. It consists of carbon fixation, reduction, and regeneration.

ATP synthase

An enzyme that allows hydrogen ions to move from high to low concentration, generating ATP in the process.

ADP

A molecule formed from the breakdown of ATP in the Calvin cycle. It can be converted back to ATP.

NADP+

Molecule that accepts electrons & hydrogen ions & becomes NADPH

Electron transport chain (ETC)

A series of proteins and molecules that transfer electrons during the light-dependent reactions of photosynthesis.

Chemosynthesis

The process by which certain bacteria and microorganisms produce energy using chemicals instead of sunlight.

Chlorophyll

A green pigment in plants that captures sunlight for energy conversion in photosynthesis.

Light-dependent reactions

Reactions that occur in the thylakoid membrane and convert light energy into chemical energy (ATP and NADPH), releasing oxygen as a byproduct.

Light-independent reactions

Reactions that occur in the stroma and use ATP and NADPH to convert carbon dioxide into glucose in the Calvin cycle.

NADPH

Molecule that carries electrons from photosystem 1 and hydrogen ions to the Calvin cycle. Formed by the addition of electrons an hydrogen to NADP+

Photosynthesis

The process by which light energy, water, and carbon dioxide are converted into glucose for chemical energy, with the release of oxygen.

Photosystems

Clusters of proteins and pigments (such as chlorophyll) that absorb light energy and initiate the light-dependent reactions of photosynthesis.

Photolysis

The splitting of water molecules during photosynthesis, releasing oxygen and providing electrons for the electron transport chain.

Thylakoid

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

Pigments

Molecules, such as chlorophyll and carotenoids, that absorb light energy during photosynthesis.

Absorption Spectrum

The range of wavelengths of light absorbed by each pigment, with chlorophyll absorbing most strongly in the blue and red portions.

Factors that affect photosynthesis

Sunlight (amount and color), temperature, and carbon dioxide concentration.

Stroma

The fluid-filled space surrounding the thylakoid where the Calvin cycle takes place in photosynthesis.