Bioenergetics: Photosynthesis Flashcards
What is photosynthesis?
Photosynthesis is the process by which green plants, algae, and some bacteria, absorb sunlight and convert it into chemical energy in the form of glucose
Is photosynthesis an endothermic or exothermic reaction?
Photosynthesis is an endothermic reaction, meaning it requires an input of energy, which comes from the sun
What are autotrophs?
Autotrophs, like plants, are producers that do not need to consume other organisms for energy. They produce their own energy through processes like photosynthesis.
Why is photosynthesis crucial for life on earth?
Photosynthesis produces oxygen, which is necessary for cellular respiration
What is the word and symbol equation for photosynthesis?
Word equation: Carbon dioxide + water —> glucose + oxygen
Symbol equation: 6CO2 + 6H2O —> C6H12O6 + 6O2
Where do the light dependent reactions occur in the plant cell?
Light dependent reactions occur in the thylakoid membranes of the chloroplast
What is the role of life dependent reactions in photosynthesis?
Light dependent reactions use energy from sunlight to convert ADP and NADT+ into ATP and NADPH, and they release oxygen in the process
Where do light independent reactions (Calvin cycle) occur?
Light independent reactions, or the Calvin cycle, occur in the stroma of the chloroplasts
What happens in the Calvin cycle?
During the Calvin cycle, ATP and NADPH from the light dependent reactions are used to convert carbon dioxide into glucose
What is chlorophyll?
Chlorophyll is a pigmented molecule that absorbs light energy and passes it to other molecules initiating the photosynthetic process
What factors affect the rate of photosynthesis?
Light intensity, temperature, chlorophyll, carbon dioxide and water
How does light intensity affect the rate of photosynthesis?
As light intensity increases, the rate of photosynthesis increases proportionally until it reaches a saturation point
What is the effect of temperature on photosynthesis?
Photosynthesis is most efficient at an optimal temperature. Both too low and too high temperatures can negatively affect the rate of photosynthesis
How does the concentration of carbon dioxide affect photosynthesis?
High concentrations of carbon dioxide stimulate photosynthesis until a maximum rate is reached
