Honors Biology: Photosynthesis

Flashcards covering key vocabulary and concepts related to photosynthesis in plant biology.

Photosynthesis

The process by which plants, algae, and some bacteria convert light energy into chemical energy stored in glucose.

Heterotrophs

Organisms (like animals) that obtain their energy by consuming other organisms.

Autotrophs

Organisms (like plants) that produce their own energy, typically through photosynthesis.

Chloroplasts

The organelles in plant cells that absorb sunlight and convert it into chemical energy.

NADPH

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

Calvin Cycle

Light-independent reactions in photosynthesis that use ATP and NADPH to convert CO2 into glucose.

Light Reactions

The first stage of photosynthesis, where sunlight is converted into chemical energy (ATP and NADPH) and oxygen is produced.

ATP (Adenosine Triphosphate)

The main energy carrier in living organisms, produced during the light reactions of photosynthesis.

Thylakoid

Flattened membrane sacs inside the chloroplast that contain chlorophyll and are the site for the light reactions.

Electron Transport Chain

A series of proteins in the thylakoid membrane that transfer electrons and create a proton gradient for ATP production.

Stomata

Small openings on the underside of leaves that allow for gas exchange, including the intake of CO2 and release of O2.

Pigments

Molecules that absorb light energy; chlorophyll is the main pigment involved in photosynthesis.

Chemical Energy

Energy stored in the bonds of chemical compounds, released during chemical reactions.

Glucose (C6H12O6)

A simple sugar produced during photosynthesis, serving as an energy source for plants and other organisms.

Homeostasis

The ability of a plant to maintain a stable internal environment despite external changes.

Transpiration

The process by which water evaporates from the plant leaves, aiding in nutrient transport and cooling.

Photon

A particle of light that provides the energy needed to drive the light reactions of photosynthesis.

Chlorophyll

A green pigment found in chloroplasts that captures light energy for photosynthesis.