Life Depends on Photosynthesis
Ultimate source of energy (the sun) ⇒ chemical energy usable by life
Basis for *all food chains
Changed Earth’s atmosphere and life forms
Removes CO2
*Chemoautotrophs obtain energy from chemicals such as methane. Ex: bacteria in the
hydrothermal vents in the ocean floor
Introduction to Photosynthesis
Metabolic pathway that transforms solar energy to chemical energy
Overall Equation:
Stages of Photosynthesis:
1. Light-Dependent Reaction (LDR)
Light energy absorbed
Transferred to energy carrying molecules
Uses water
Produces O2
2. Light-Independent Reaction (LIR)
Ultimate source of energy (the sun) ⇒ chemical energy usable by life
Basis for *all food chains
Changed Earth’s atmosphere and life forms
Removes CO2
*Chemoautotrophs obtain energy from chemicals such as methane. Ex: bacteria in the
hydrothermal vents in the ocean floor
Introduction to Photosynthesis
Metabolic pathway that transforms solar energy to chemical energy
Overall Equation:
Stages of Photosynthesis:
1. Light-Dependent Reaction (LDR)
Light energy absorbed
Transferred to energy carrying molecules
Uses water
Produces O2
2. Light-Independent Reaction (LIR)
