Questions and Answers
Why does chlorophyll look green to the human eye?
Chlorophyll reflects green light.
Photosynthesis is commonly divided into how many primary stages?
two major stages
The light reactions of photosynthesis are responsible for the production of which of the following molecules?
Converting solar energy into chemical energy
Where does the Calvin cycle take place in the chloroplasts?
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What is the name of the light-independent reaction of photosynthesis?
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Where do the light reactions of photosynthesis occur?
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What is Photosystem II responsible for?
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How does the reaction center chlorophyll interact with the antenna pigments in a photosystem?
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What are the molecules needed for the Calvin cycle?
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What is produced during the light reactions of photosynthesis?
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What role does chlorophyll play in photosynthesis?
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Photosynthesis occurs only in plant cells.
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What is the importance of carbon fixation?
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What happens during the Calvin cycle?
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What is the chemical formula for photosynthesis?
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What is the visible light spectrum?
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What role do wavelengths play in light energy?
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What are the primary structures involved in photosynthesis?
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What is stomata?
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What is chloroplast?
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What is the definition of a pigment?
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Study Notes
Photosynthesis Essentials
- Chlorophyll appears green because it reflects green light while absorbing blue and red light.
- Photosynthesis has two main stages: light reactions and the Calvin cycle; light reactions convert solar energy into chemical energy while the Calvin cycle synthesizes sugars.
Light Reactions
- Occur in thylakoid membranes within chloroplasts.
- Produce ATP and NADPH; essential for the Calvin cycle.
- Involve Photosystem II, which absorbs sunlight and splits water, releasing oxygen.
Calvin Cycle
- Takes place in the stroma of chloroplasts.
- Uses ATP and NADPH from light reactions to convert CO2 into glucose.
- Carbon fixation occurs here, incorporating CO2 into organic compounds.
Key Components of Photosynthesis
- Thylakoids: Pancake-shaped structures where light reactions happen.
- Stroma: Fluid inside chloroplasts where Calvin cycle occurs.
- Chloroplasts: Organelles in plant cells that facilitate photosynthesis and contain thylakoids and stroma.
Role of Pigments
- Chlorophyll a: Primary pigment for photosynthesis; absorbs light most effectively.
- Chlorophyll b: Accessory pigment that complements chlorophyll a by absorbing different wavelengths.
- Carotenoids: Pigments that protect chlorophyll by dissipating excess light energy and broaden the spectrum of light that plants can use.
Energy Transfer
- A photon, as a light energy bundle, excites electrons in chlorophyll, transitioning them from a ground state to an excited state.
- The process of light reactions generates a proton gradient used to create ATP through ATP synthase.
- NADPH is produced when excited electrons from Photosystem I are transferred to NADP+.
Gas Exchange and Plant Function
- Stomata are openings on leaves that allow CO2 to enter and oxygen to exit.
- Plants absorb water through roots, CO2 through leaves, and capture sunlight through chlorophyll.
Photosynthesis Equation
- Chemical formula: 6H2O + 6CO2 → C6H12O6 + 6O2, illustrating the conversion of water and carbon dioxide into glucose and oxygen.
Photosynthesis vs. Cellular Respiration
- Photosynthesis converts light energy into chemical energy (glucose) while releasing oxygen.
- Cellular respiration breaks down glucose to release stored energy; both processes are vital for plant growth and energy supply.
Importance of Carbon Fixation
- Carbon fixation is crucial in mitigating climate change by reducing atmospheric CO2 and producing oxygen.
- Plants' ability to convert atmospheric CO2 into organic compounds highlights their ecological significance.
Overview of Photosynthesis Process
- Light Reactions: Solar energy is absorbed, water is split, O2 is released, and ATP and NADPH are produced.
- Calvin Cycle: CO2 is absorbed, and with the help of ATP and NADPH, it is transformed into glucose and other organic molecules.
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Description
Test your knowledge of photosynthesis with these flashcards from Chapter 5. Explore the role of chlorophyll and the stages of photosynthesis. Perfect for students looking to enhance their understanding of this crucial biological process.
