P2 - Light-Independent Reactions Flashcards
Where do the light-dependent reactions occur?
In the thylakoid membrane & thylakoid space/lumen
What are the reactants for the light-dependent reactions?
Light energy (photons) & water (H₂O)
What are the products of the light-dependent reactions?
½ O₂, ATP & NADPH
Where do the light-independent reactions occur?
In the stroma
What is the main purpose of the Calvin Cycle?
To convert inorganic carbon (CO₂) into organic molecules like glucose
What are the reactants of the Calvin Cycle?
CO₂, ATP, and NADPH
What is the main product of the Calvin Cycle?
G3P (Glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate), which can be used to form glucose
How many cycles of the Calvin Cycle are needed to form one glucose molecule?
Six cycles
What enzyme catalyzes carbon fixation in the Calvin Cycle?
Rubisco
What happens in carbon fixation?
CO₂ combines with RuBP (a 5-carbon molecule), forming an unstable 6-carbon molecule that breaks into two 3-carbon molecules (3PG)
How is 3PG converted into G3P?
It is activated by ATP and reduced by NADPH
What happens to the G3P molecules produced?
Some leave the cycle to form glucose, while most are used to regenerate RuBP
What is required for the regeneration of RuBP?
ATP
Why is the regeneration of RuBP important?
It allows the Calvin Cycle to continue by recycling the starter molecule
What is another name for the Calvin Cycle?
The Calvin-Benson-Bassham Cycle or Light-Independent Reactions
