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Photosynthesis

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14 views2 pages

Photosynthesis

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rinichi.asus
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Photosynthesis

(Lecture Notes)

I. Introduction to Photosynthesis

 Definition: Photosynthesis is the process by which green plants, algae, and some bacteria
convert light energy, usually from the sun, into chemical energy in the form of glucose.
 Importance: It is the basis of life on Earth as it provides oxygen for aerobic respiration
and is the primary source of organic nutrients for most organisms.

II. Photosynthesis Equation

 Chemical Equation: 6CO2 + 6H2O + light energy → C6H12O6 + 6O2


o Carbon dioxide + Water + Light energy → Glucose + Oxygen

III. Photosynthesis Process

1. Light-Dependent Reactions
o Location: Thylakoid membranes of chloroplasts
o Purpose: Convert light energy into chemical energy (ATP and NADPH) used in
the Calvin cycle.
o Steps:
 Photon Absorption: Light energy absorbed by chlorophyll and other
pigments.
 Water Splitting: Photolysis of water releases electrons, protons, and
oxygen.
 Electron Transport Chain: Electron flow generates ATP and NADPH
via chemiosmosis.
2. Calvin Cycle (Light-Independent Reactions)
o Location: Stroma of chloroplasts
o Purpose: Use ATP and NADPH to convert CO2 into glucose.
o Steps:
 Carbon Fixation: CO2 is fixed to ribulose-1,5-bisphosphate (RuBP) by
rubisco enzyme.
 Reduction: ATP and NADPH provide energy and electrons to form
glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate (G3P).
 Regeneration of RuBP: Remaining G3P molecules regenerate RuBP for
further CO2 fixation.

IV. Factors Affecting Photosynthesis

 Light Intensity: Higher light intensity generally increases photosynthesis until a certain
saturation point.
 Carbon Dioxide Concentration: Higher CO2 levels increase the rate of photosynthesis
until it becomes saturated.
 Temperature: Optimal temperature range (typically 20-30°C for most plants); extremes
can denature enzymes.
 Water Availability: Necessary for maintaining turgor pressure and as a raw material in
photolysis during the light reactions.
 Chlorophyll Content: Pigment concentration affects the absorption of light.

V. Adaptations for Photosynthesis

 C4 Plants: Adaptations in biochemical pathways (e.g., maize, sugarcane) to minimize


photorespiration and optimize CO2 fixation.
 CAM Plants: Stomata open at night (e.g., cacti, pineapples) to conserve water and fix
CO2 during cooler periods.

VI. Photosynthesis and Global Carbon Cycle

 Role in Carbon Sequestration: Plants absorb CO2 from the atmosphere and store it as
carbohydrates.
 Impact of Deforestation: Reduction in photosynthetic capacity can lead to increased
atmospheric CO2 levels.

VII. Practical Applications

 Agriculture: Understanding photosynthesis helps optimize crop yield through better


management of light, water, and nutrients.
 Biofuels: Research into improving photosynthetic efficiency for sustainable energy
production.
 Environmental Impact: Photosynthesis plays a crucial role in ecosystems and in
mitigating climate change.

VIII. Conclusion

 Summary: Photosynthesis is a fundamental process sustaining life on Earth by


converting light energy into chemical energy stored in glucose.
 Future Directions: Continued research into improving photosynthetic efficiency and
understanding its role in global carbon cycling is crucial for sustainable development.

References

 Campbell, N. A., & Reece, J. B. (2005). Biology (7th ed.). Benjamin Cummings.
 Taiz, L., & Zeiger, E. (2010). Plant Physiology (5th ed.). Sinauer Associates.

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