Photosynthesis Study Notes

Photosynthesis Study Notes

What is Photosynthesis?

• Photosynthesis is the process by which plants convert sunlight into chemical energy (glucose).
• It occurs only in plant cells.

Where Does Photosynthesis Happen?

• Organelle: Chloroplast
• Pigment: Chlorophyll (absorbs sunlight)

Reactants and Products

• Reactants: Carbon dioxide (CO2), Water (H2O), and Sunlight
• Products: Glucose (C6H{12}O6), and Oxygen (O2)

Balanced Chemical Equation

• 6CO2 + 6H2O \xrightarrow{\text{light}} C6H{12}O6 + 6O2

Process Summary

1. Sunlight hits chloroplasts.
2. Chlorophyll absorbs energy.
3. Water (from roots) and (CO_2) (from air) are used to make glucose.
4. Oxygen is released.

Why Photosynthesis is Important

• Produces food (glucose) for the plant.
• Produces oxygen for other organisms.
• Starts the energy flow in ecosystems.

Photosynthesis vs. Cellular Respiration

• Photosynthesis:
  • Stores energy (in glucose).
  • Uses (CO2) and (H2O).
• Cellular Respiration:
  • Releases energy (ATP).
  • Uses glucose and (O_2).
• The products of one are the reactants of the other.