Photosynthesis Basics

Front

What is photosynthesis?

Back

Photosynthesis is the process by which green plants, algae, and some bacteria convert light energy, usually from the sun, into chemical energy in the form of glucose, using carbon dioxide and water.

Front

What is the primary pigment involved in photosynthesis?

Back

Chlorophyll is the primary pigment involved in photosynthesis, responsible for absorbing sunlight.

Front

What are the main products of photosynthesis?

Back

The main products of photosynthesis are glucose and oxygen.

Front

What are the two main stages of photosynthesis?

Back

The two main stages of photosynthesis are the light-dependent reactions and the light-independent reactions (Calvin cycle).

Front

Where does photosynthesis occur in plants?

Back

Photosynthesis occurs primarily in the leaves of plants, specifically in the chloroplasts.

Front

What is the role of sunlight in photosynthesis?

Back

Sunlight provides the energy needed to drive the chemical reactions that convert carbon dioxide and water into glucose and oxygen.

Front

What is the chemical equation for photosynthesis?

Back

The chemical equation for photosynthesis is 6CO₂ + 6H₂O + light energy → C₆H₁₂O₆ + 6O₂.

Front

What is the stroma in the context of photosynthesis?

Back

The stroma is the fluid-filled space inside the chloroplast where the light-independent reactions (Calvin cycle) take place.

Front

What is the function of thylakoids in photosynthesis?

Back

Thylakoids are membrane-bound structures within chloroplasts that contain chlorophyll and are the site of the light-dependent reactions.

Front

What is the significance of the dark reactions in photosynthesis?

Back

The dark reactions (Calvin cycle) use ATP and NADPH produced in the light-dependent reactions to convert carbon dioxide into glucose.