A Comparison Between the Phases of Photosynthesis

Vocabulary flashcards detailing the differences, locations, and chemical processes of the light-dependent and light-independent phases of photosynthesis based on the University of Cape Town study materials.

Light dependent phase (light phase)

A phase of photosynthesis that occurs in the grana where light is required, radiant energy is absorbed, and $ATP$ is produced.

Grana

The specific location within the chloroplast where the light dependent phase of photosynthesis occurs.

Radiant energy

The type of energy absorbed during the light dependent phase of photosynthesis.

Oxygen

The gas released and returned to the atmosphere during the light dependent phase.

Light independent phase (dark phase)

A phase of photosynthesis that occurs in the stroma where light is not required and hydrogen and carbon dioxide combine to form glucose.

Stroma

The specific location within the chloroplast where the light independent phase occurs.

Carbon dioxide

A gas absorbed from the atmosphere during the light independent phase that combines with hydrogen using $ATP$ to form glucose.

Glucose

The sugar formed in the light independent phase when hydrogen and carbon dioxide combine.

Starch

The substance in which excess glucose produced during photosynthesis is stored.

ATP

The energy molecule produced in the light phase and used in the dark phase to help form glucose.