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Class Notes: Photosynthesis

1. Definition

 Photosynthesis is the process by which green plants, algae, and some bacteria convert light
energy, carbon dioxide, and water into glucose (a type of sugar) and oxygen, using sunlight
and the pigment chlorophyll.

2. Photosynthesis Equation

 The general chemical equation for photosynthesis is: 6CO2+6H2O+light


energy→chlorophyllC6H12O6+6O26CO_2 + 6H_2O + light \, energy \xrightarrow{chlorophyll}
C_6H_{12}O_6 + 6O_26CO2+6H2O+lightenergychlorophyllC6H12O6+6O2
o CO2: Carbon dioxide
o H2O: Water
o C6H12O6: Glucose (Sugar)
o O2: Oxygen

3. The Process of Photosynthesis

 Stage 1: Light-dependent Reactions (Occurs in the Thylakoid Membranes)


o Light energy is absorbed by chlorophyll.
o Water molecules are split into oxygen, protons, and electrons.
o ATP (adenosine triphosphate) and NADPH (nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide
phosphate) are produced.
 Stage 2: Light-independent Reactions (Calvin Cycle, Occurs in the Stroma)
o ATP and NADPH produced in the light-dependent stage are used to convert carbon
dioxide into glucose.
o This cycle involves a series of reactions that result in the formation of glucose.

4. Importance of Photosynthesis

 Energy Production: Photosynthesis is the primary source of energy for nearly all life on
Earth.
 Oxygen Production: Oxygen released during photosynthesis is essential for the survival of
aerobic organisms, including humans.
 Carbon Dioxide Reduction: Photosynthesis helps regulate the levels of carbon dioxide in the
atmosphere, mitigating the effects of global warming.

5. Factors Affecting Photosynthesis

 Light Intensity: The rate of photosynthesis increases with more light, but only up to a point.
 Carbon Dioxide Concentration: Higher CO2 levels can increase the rate of photosynthesis.
 Temperature: Extreme temperatures can slow down or stop photosynthesis.
 Water Availability: Adequate water is required for the process to occur efficiently.

6. Stomata and Gas Exchange

 Stomata are small pores on the surface of leaves that allow the exchange of gases.
o CO2 enters through stomata for photosynthesis.
o Oxygen and water vapor exit the leaf through stomata.

7. Chloroplasts

 Chloroplasts are the organelles within plant cells where photosynthesis occurs.
o Chlorophyll: The green pigment inside chloroplasts absorbs sunlight.
o Thylakoids: Membrane-bound structures where light-dependent reactions occur.
o Stroma: The fluid inside the chloroplasts where the Calvin Cycle occurs.

Additional Notes:

 Review Tips:
o Understand the difference between light-dependent and light-independent reactions.
o Be familiar with the structure and function of chloroplasts.
o Know the significance of photosynthesis to life on Earth.
 Practice Questions:
1. What are the products of the light-dependent reactions?

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