Photosynthesis Key Concepts

Study Notes

Photosynthesis Key Concepts

Light Reaction
Primary phase of photosynthesis that occurs in the thylakoid membranes, converting light energy into chemical energy in the form of ATP and NADPH.
Sunlight
Essential energy source for photosynthesis; drives the light reactions and powers the formation of glucose.
Thylakoid Membrane
Internal membrane system of chloroplasts where light reactions occur; contains chlorophyll and other pigments necessary for capturing light energy.
Chloroplast
Organelles found in plant cells responsible for photosynthesis; contain thylakoids and stroma, playing a crucial role in converting light energy into chemical energy.
H2O (Water)
Source of electrons in the light reactions and produces oxygen (O2) as a byproduct; essential for maintaining plant hydration and physiological functions.
O2 (Oxygen)
Byproduct of the light reactions; released into the atmosphere and vital for aerobic organisms.
CO2 (Carbon Dioxide)
Essential reactant in the Calvin Cycle used to synthesize glucose; absorbed from the atmosphere through plant stomata.
Sugar
End product of photosynthesis; serves as an energy source and building block for various organic compounds in plants.
Stroma
The fluid-filled space within the chloroplast surrounding thylakoids; location of the Calvin Cycle where CO2 is fixed into sugar.
Calvin Cycle
Series of biochemical reactions occurring in the stroma that convert CO2 and energy from ATP and NADPH into glucose, essential for plant growth and metabolism.