cell biology and energy flow (unit 3)

what is the overall equation for photosynthesis

6CO₂+ 6H₂O + Light Energy —> C₆H₁₂O₆ + 6O₂

what are the two main stages of photosynthesis

1.) light dependent reactions

2.) light independent reactions (calvin cycle)

where do light dependent reactions of photosynthesis occur

thylakoid membranes within the chloroplasts

what are the main products of the light dependent reactions

1.) Oxygen (O2)

2.) ATP

3.) NADPH

where does the calvin cycle (light independent reactions) occur

in the stroma within the chloroplasts

what is the primary output of the Calvin Cycle

glucose

name three unique features of a plant cell not typically found in an animal cell

1.) cell wall

2.) chloroplasts

3.) large central vacuole

what is the function of the cell wall in plant cells

provides structural support, protection, and maintains the cells shape

what is the function of chloroplasts

site of photosynthesis, where light energy is converted into chemical energy

what is the primary role of the large central vacuole in plant cells

stores water, nutrients, waste, and maintains turgor pressure

which organelle is responsible for generating most of the ATP in both plant and animal cells

mitochondria (through cellular respiration)

what is a key difference in energy storage between plant and animal cells

plant animals store energy as starch;

anima cells store energy as glycogen

name two organelles found in animal cells but not typically found in plant cells

lysosomes and centrioles

what is the main role of lysosomes

contain digestive enzymes to break down waste and cellular debris

what is the most significant form of carbon in the atmosphere

carbon dioxide (CO2)

what process removes carbon dioxide from the atmosphere

photosynthesis

what process releases carbon dioxide into the atmosphere from living organisms

respiration

how do decomposers contribute to the carbon cycle

they break down dead organic matter, returning carbon to the soil and atmosphere (as CO2 through respiration)

name a human activity that significantly increases atmospheric carbon dioxide

the burning of fossil fuels (coal, oil, natural gas) and deforestation

how do oceans act as carbon reservoir

they absorb dissolved CO2, and marine organisms use carbon to build shells and skeletons