What is Photosynthesis?
Photosynthesis is a process used by plants and other organisms to convert light energy into chemical energy that can later be released to fuel the organisms' activities.
Chlorophyll's Critical Role
Chlorophyll, the green pigment in plants, absorbs light primarily in the blue and red wavelengths, initiating the conversion of light energy into chemical energy.
Photosynthesis Equation
The general equation for photosynthesis is 6CO2 + 6H2O + light energy → C6H12O6 + 6O2. This depicts how carbon dioxide and water are converted into glucose and oxygen.
Two-Stage Process
Photosynthesis occurs in two stages: the light-dependent reactions and the Calvin cycle. The former converts solar energy into chemical carriers, while the latter produces sugar.
Oxygenic vs. Anoxygenic
Most known photosynthesis is oxygenic, producing oxygen as a byproduct. However, some bacteria perform anoxygenic photosynthesis, which does not produce oxygen.
Photosynthesis Variations
Photosynthesis can vary based on environmental conditions. For example, CAM plants open their stomata at night to minimize water loss in arid conditions.
Ancient Photosynthesis Origins
Photosynthesis dates back at least 3.5 billion years. Ancient cyanobacteria's photosynthetic activity is largely credited with the oxygenation of Earth's atmosphere.
What does photosynthesis convert?
CO2 to oxygen
Light energy to chemical energy
Glucose to carbon dioxide
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