Photosynthesis Notes - Campbell Biology (12th Edition)
Chapter 10: Photosynthesis - Summary Notes
Photosynthesis is the process by which plants, algae, and some bacteria convert light energy into chemical
energy stored in glucose. It takes place in the chloroplasts of plant cells, primarily in the mesophyll tissue of
leaves.
Key Phrase: "Photosynthesis converts solar energy into chemical energy."
The overall equation for photosynthesis is:
6 CO2 + 6 H2O + light energy -> C6H12O6 + 6 O2
Key Phrase: "Chloroplasts are the site of photosynthesis."
Photosynthesis consists of two main stages:
1. The Light Reactions (in the thylakoid membranes):
- Convert solar energy to chemical energy (ATP and NADPH).
- Split water molecules, releasing O2.
- Use pigments like chlorophyll a and chlorophyll b to absorb light.
Key Phrase: "Light reactions produce ATP and NADPH and release oxygen."
2. The Calvin Cycle (in the stroma):
- Uses ATP and NADPH to convert CO2 into G3P (a sugar intermediate).
- Does not require light directly but depends on light reactions.
Chapter 10: Photosynthesis - Summary Notes
Photosynthesis is the process by which plants, algae, and some bacteria convert light energy into chemical
energy stored in glucose. It takes place in the chloroplasts of plant cells, primarily in the mesophyll tissue of
leaves.
Key Phrase: "Photosynthesis converts solar energy into chemical energy."
The overall equation for photosynthesis is:
6 CO2 + 6 H2O + light energy -> C6H12O6 + 6 O2
Key Phrase: "Chloroplasts are the site of photosynthesis."
Photosynthesis consists of two main stages:
1. The Light Reactions (in the thylakoid membranes):
- Convert solar energy to chemical energy (ATP and NADPH).
- Split water molecules, releasing O2.
- Use pigments like chlorophyll a and chlorophyll b to absorb light.
Key Phrase: "Light reactions produce ATP and NADPH and release oxygen."
2. The Calvin Cycle (in the stroma):
- Uses ATP and NADPH to convert CO2 into G3P (a sugar intermediate).
- Does not require light directly but depends on light reactions.
