Photosynthesis
Photosynthesis is the process by which green plants, algae, and some bacteria
convert light energy into chemical energy. Plants take in carbon dioxide from the air
and water from the soil, using sunlight to transform these into glucose (a sugar) and
oxygen. This vital process occurs in two main stages within the chloroplast: the light-
dependent reactions in the thylakoid membrane (which produce ATP and NADPH)
and the light-independent reactions (the Calvin cycle) in the stroma (which use ATP
and NADPH to create carbohydrates).
Inputs and Outputs
Inputs: Carbon dioxide (CO2), water (H2O), and light energy.
Outputs: Glucose (a sugar), and oxygen (O2).
Two Stages of Photosynthesis
1. Light-Dependent Reactions:
Location: Thylakoid membrane within the chloroplast.
Process: Sunlight energy is absorbed by chlorophyll, splitting water molecules
(H2O) into oxygen, protons, and electrons.
Products: The energy from light is used to create temporary energy storage
molecules: ATP and NADPH. Oxygen is released as a byproduct.
2. Light-Independent Reactions (Calvin Cycle):
Location: Stroma (the fluid-filled space) within the chloroplast.
Process: ATP and NADPH from the light reactions power the conversion of carbon
dioxide (CO2) into carbohydrates, such as glucose.
Products: Glucose, which the plant uses for energy and growth.
Significance
Photosynthesis provides the oxygen necessary for most life on Earth.
It forms the foundation of food chains by producing the carbohydrates that sustain
most living organisms.