Photosynthesis Processes and Functions

Dan Weisenberger explains photosynthesis, a two-step process converting light energy into chemical energy. The first step involves light reactions where chlorophyll in plant cells absorbs light, exciting electrons and initiating an electron transport chain, producing ATP and NADPH. Photosystem 2 and Photosystem 1 are key components in this process. The second step, the Calvin Cycle, uses ATP and NADPH to convert CO2 into sugar, forming glyceraldehyde 3-phosphate, a precursor for glycolysis. This process ultimately supports cell function and growth.

What is the primary purpose of photosynthesis?

• To produce carbon dioxide

• To convert light energy into chemical energy

• To convert chemical energy into light energy

• To generate heat energy

In photosystem 2, what is the role of chlorophyll?

• To produce glucose directly

• To absorb oxygen

• To split carbon dioxide

• To excite electrons

What is generated as a result of the electron transport chain in photosystem 2?

• Glucose

• Carbon dioxide

• ATP

• NADPH

What follows photosystem 2 in the photosynthesis process?

• Citric Acid Cycle

• Calvin Cycle

• Photosystem 1

• Glycolysis

What molecule is converted into NADPH during photosystem 1?

• Oxygen

• Glucose

• ATP

• NADP

What is the main purpose of the Calvin cycle?

• To produce oxygen

• To split water molecules

• To convert CO2 into sugar

• To generate ATP

Which compound is formed as a starting material for glycolysis?

• ATP

• Glucose

• Glyceraldehyde 3-phosphate

• NADPH

What is the final product of the Calvin cycle that is used in glycolysis?

• Oxygen

• ATP

• Glyceraldehyde 3-phosphate

• NADPH

What is the overall result of converting light energy in photosynthesis?

• Formation of water

• Generation of carbon dioxide

• Conversion into a large amount of chemical energy

• Production of heat energy

What can the chemical energy produced in photosynthesis be used for?

• Heating the environment

• Generating light

• Cell function and growth

• Producing sound