Photosynthesis Overview

• Photosynthesis: Process where light is converted into organic compounds, especially sugars, in plants.
• Importance: Essential for life on Earth as it produces organic compounds necessary for food and energy.

Key Processes

1. Light-Dependent Reactions
   • Occur in thylakoids within chloroplasts.
   • Depend on light to activate pigments.
   • • Photosystem II: Absorbs light and energizes electrons.
     • Electrons transported via the electron transport chain.
     • Water is split to replace lost electrons, releasing oxygen.
     • Hydrogen ions are pumped across the thylakoid membrane.
     • ATP synthase produces ATP by the flow of hydrogen ions.
     • Photosystem I: Re-energizes electrons.
     • Electrons and hydrogen ions are accepted by NADP+ to form NADPH.
2. Calvin Cycle
   • Utilizes ATP and NADPH to convert carbon dioxide and water into glucose.
   • Detailed coverage in subsequent content.

Products of Light-Dependent Reactions

• ATP: Energy carrier generated by ATP synthase.
• NADPH: Electron carrier that assists in the Calvin cycle.

Additional Resources

• BioMan Biology’s interactive tool for practicing light-dependent reactions.
• Subscription recommendations for updates on new instructional videos.