Photosynthesis

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What is photosynthesis?

Back

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.

Front

What is the chemical equation for photosynthesis?

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6CO₂ + 6H₂O + light energy → C₆H₁₂O₆ + 6O₂

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What role do chloroplasts play in photosynthesis?

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Chloroplasts are the organelles in plant cells where photosynthesis occurs, containing chlorophyll that captures light energy.

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What is chlorophyll?

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Chlorophyll is the green pigment found in chloroplasts that absorbs light energy, primarily from the sun, to drive photosynthesis.

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What is the stroma in a chloroplast?

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The stroma is the fluid-filled space inside chloroplasts where the Calvin cycle takes place, synthesizing glucose from carbon dioxide.

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What are thylakoids?

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

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What are the light-dependent reactions?

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Light-dependent reactions are the first stage of photosynthesis, occurring in the thylakoids, where light energy is converted into chemical energy (ATP and NADPH).

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What is the Calvin cycle?

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The Calvin cycle is the second stage of photosynthesis, occurring in the stroma, where ATP and NADPH are used to convert carbon dioxide into glucose.

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Why do plants need sunlight for photosynthesis?

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Plants need sunlight as it provides the energy required to convert carbon dioxide and water into glucose and oxygen during photosynthesis.

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What is the importance of photosynthesis to life on Earth?

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Photosynthesis is crucial as it produces oxygen, which is essential for the survival of most living organisms, and it forms the base of the food chain.