Photosynthesis Review

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What is photosynthesis?

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

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What are the two main stages of photosynthesis?

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

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What is the role of chlorophyll in photosynthesis?

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Chlorophyll is a green pigment found in plants that absorbs light energy, primarily from the sun, which is essential for the process of photosynthesis.

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What is the equation for photosynthesis?

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

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What are light-dependent reactions?

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Light-dependent reactions are the first stage of photosynthesis that occur in the thylakoid membranes, where sunlight is converted into chemical energy in the form of ATP and NADPH.

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What are light-independent reactions (Calvin Cycle)?

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Light-independent reactions, also known as the Calvin Cycle, occur in the stroma of chloroplasts and use ATP and NADPH to convert carbon dioxide into glucose.

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What is ATP and its role in photosynthesis?

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ATP (adenosine triphosphate) is the energy currency of the cell, providing energy for various cellular processes, including the light-independent reactions of photosynthesis.

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What is NADPH and its function in photosynthesis?

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NADPH (nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate) is a reducing agent that provides the high-energy electrons needed for the Calvin Cycle to synthesize glucose.

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How does carbon dioxide concentration affect photosynthesis?

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Increasing carbon dioxide concentration generally increases the rate of photosynthesis, up to a certain point, after which other factors may become limiting.

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What is the effect of light intensity on photosynthesis?

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Higher light intensity increases the rate of photosynthesis, but only to a certain level; beyond that, other factors like CO₂ or temperature may limit the process.