I.

Introduction to Photosynthesis
 Definition: Photosynthesis is the process by which green plants and some other
organisms use sunlight to synthesize foods with the primary end product being
oxygen and glucose.
 Importance: Essential for life on Earth as it provides oxygen and is the base of the
food chain.
II. Key Components Involved
1. Chlorophyll:
 Primary pigment in green plants.
 Responsible for absorbing light energy.
2. Light Energy:
 Comes from the Sun.
 Drives the photosynthesis process.
3. Water (H₂O):
 Absorbed through roots from the soil.
 Contributes to the electron transport chain.
4. Carbon Dioxide (CO₂):
 Absorbed from the air.
 Used to produce glucose.
III. The Process of Photosynthesis
1. Light-Dependent Reactions:
 Occur in the thylakoid membranes of chloroplasts.
 Use light to create ATP and NADPH.
 Oxygen is released as a byproduct.
2. Light-Independent Reactions (Calvin Cycle):
 Occur in the stroma of chloroplasts.
 Use ATP and NADPH to convert CO₂ into glucose.
 Do not require light directly.
IV. Factors Affecting Photosynthesis
1. Light Intensity:
 Higher intensity increases the rate up to a point.
2. Carbon Dioxide Concentration:
 Increased CO₂ enhances the process.
3. Temperature:
 Optimal range for most plants is 20-30°C.
 Too high or low can negatively impact the process.
V. Significance in the Ecosystem
 Basis for the food chain.
 Major factor in the carbon cycle.
 Oxygen production is vital for most organisms.
VI. Practical Applications
 Understanding photosynthesis can help in areas such as agriculture (enhancing crop
yield), combating climate change (through carbon sequestration), and biofuel
production.