Photosynthesis

Thylakoid

Location of the light reactions in photosynthesis, inside the chloroplast.

Light Reaction

The first stage of photosynthesis that converts light energy into chemical energy.

Inputs of Light Reaction

Light and H2O (water).

Outputs of Light Reaction

Oxygen (O2), ATP, and NADPH.

Calvin Cycle

The second stage of photosynthesis where CO2 is used to produce glucose.

Stroma

The fluid-filled space in the chloroplast where the Calvin Cycle occurs.

Inputs of Calvin Cycle

CO2 (carbon dioxide).

Outputs of Calvin Cycle

Glucose, which is stored for later use.

Glucose

The monomer created by photosynthesis used as energy by plants.

Starch

A polysaccharide composed of α-glucose monomers, used as stored energy in plants.

Cellulose

A polysaccharide made of β-glucose monomers used for structure in plant cell walls.

Photosynthesis Equation

6CO₂ + 6H₂O + Light → C₆H₁₂O₆ + 6O₂.

Light Dependent Reaction

The part of photosynthesis that converts light energy to chemical energy.

Carrier Molecules

Molecules like ATP and NADPH that transport energy in photosynthesis.

ATP

A carrier molecule that stores energy and is converted from ADP.

NADPH

A carrier molecule that carries electrons and protons, converted from NADP⁺.

ADP

A molecule that is converted to ATP during the light-dependent reactions.

NADP⁺

A molecule that is converted to NADPH during the light-dependent reactions.

Temperature Range for Photosynthesis

0–35°C optimal range for photosynthesis to occur.

Light Intensity

The amount of light available, which affects the rate of photosynthesis.

Factors Affecting Photosynthesis

Water, CO2, temperature, and light intensity influence the rate of photosynthesis.

Effects of Low Water

Decreases the rate of photosynthesis; a shortage can stop the process.

Optimal Temperature

The temperature at which the rate of photosynthesis peaks.

Effects of High Light Intensity

Increases the rate of photosynthesis until a plateau is reached.

Hydrogen Bonds in Cellulose

Hold cellulose fibrils together in plant cell walls.

Cellulose Fibrils Diagram

Illustrates the structure and organization of cellulose in a plant cell wall.

Microfibril

Composed of cellulose; part of the structural organization in plant cell walls.

Photosynthesis Limitation by CO₂

Higher CO₂ levels can increase photosynthesis until a saturation point.

Photosynthesis Rate Peak

Occurs at an optimal temperature, then declines if too high.

Oxygen Release

Produced as a byproduct of the light reactions in photosynthesis.

Energy Carriers in Photosynthesis

ATP and NADPH generated in the light reaction for use in the Calvin Cycle.

Chemical Energy Conversion

Light energy converted to chemical energy in the light dependent reactions.

Plant Cell Cross-Section

Shows the organization of cellulose fibrils in the structure of plant cell walls.