Photosynthesis Overview

These flashcards cover essential vocabulary related to the photosynthesis process, including the structures and functions involved, types of organisms, and key concepts of energy transfer.

Photosynthesis

The process that converts solar energy into a usable form.

Law of Conservation of Energy

Energy cannot be created or destroyed; it can only change form.

Autotrophs

Organisms that create their own food for energy.

Heterotrophs

Organisms that must consume organic matter for energy.

Stomata

Tiny openings on leaves where carbon dioxide enters.

Chloroplast

The organelle where photosynthesis takes place.

Grana

Stacks of thylakoids where the light-dependent reactions occur.

Stroma

The fluid-like substance that fills the space between the grana in chloroplasts.

Chlorophyll

The pigment that makes plants green and absorbs light energy.

Light-dependent reactions

The stage of photosynthesis that requires light and captures energy from the sun.

Light-independent reactions (Calvin Cycle)

The stage of photosynthesis that does not require light and uses ATP and NADPH to produce sugars.

Chemosynthesis

A process where certain organisms make food using chemical energy instead of sunlight.

Factors affecting the rate of photosynthesis

Light intensity, amount of CO2, and temperature.

Producers

Organisms that get energy from nonliving sources.

Consumers

Organisms that get energy from living or once-living sources.