BISC 130 - Chapter 8: Photosynthesis

What are the two types of organisms based on their nutritional methods?

Heterotrophs and autotrophs.

What are photoautotrophs?

Organisms that use light energy to convert carbon dioxide and water into glucose and oxygen.

What is the photosynthesis equation?

CO2 + H2O + light energy → C6H12O6 + O2.

Where do most steps of photosynthesis take place in eukaryotes?

In chloroplasts.

What are the two parts of photosynthesis?

Light-dependent reactions (LDR) and light-independent reactions (LIR).

Do light-dependent reactions require light?

Yes, they require light.

Do light-independent reactions require light?

No, they do not require light.

What is visible light?

A type of electromagnetic radiation with a specific wavelength.

What are photons?

Particles of light that carry energy.

What is a pigment?

A molecule that absorbs certain wavelengths of light and reflects others.

What role do chlorophylls play in photosynthesis?

They harness energy from light for photosynthesis.

What is the function of carotenoids in photosynthesis?

They dispose of excess energy and prevent harm from excess photons.

What are light-harvesting complexes?

Arrangements of hundreds of chlorophylls and carotenoids that facilitate photosynthesis.

What happens when photons strike pigments in Photosystem II?

They excite electrons of chlorophylls to a higher energy state.

What is the role of the Reaction Center (RC) Chlorophyll?

It delivers high energy electrons through an Electron Transport Chain.

What is created by the proton gradient during photosynthesis?

ATP is generated by ATP Synthase.

Where do the light-independent reactions take place?

In the stroma of the chloroplast.

What is the process called that attaches CO2 to Ribulose Bisphosphate?

Carbon fixation, performed by the enzyme RuBisCO.

What is produced from the Calvin Cycle in the light-independent reactions?

Glucose (C6H12O6) is produced.

What is the relationship between Glycolysis and glucose formation?

G3P is converted to glucose through a metabolic pathway called Glycolysis.