Photosynthesis

Objective:
At the end of this lesson, you should be
able to explain how photosynthetic
organisms use light energy to combine
carbon dioxide and water to form energy-
rich compounds.
 Take a look at this picture.

What can you say about this picture?

Learn about it!

The sun is the primary source of energy needed by all

organisms to survive. However, this energy cannot be
consumed by most organisms unless converted into other
forms of energy. Think of it this way. When you go to
another country, you need to exchange your money for
their currency so that you can use it. Just like in this case.
Only plants and photosynthetic organisms such as algae
convert light energy into forms usable by other organisms.
Photosynthesis is the process where
photosynthetic organisms convert light energy to
form sugar. In plants, photosynthesis specifically
occurs in the leaves.
The thylakoid membrane contains chlorophyll
which is responsible for capturing light energy.
Photosynthesis has two phases: light-dependent
reaction and light-independent reaction
  Light absorption and splitting of
water. Light strikes the chlorophyll and an
enzyme splits water (H2O) into protons
(H+ions), electrons, and oxygen (O2 ).
 Production of ATP. ATP synthase
accepts energy from H+ions to produce
adenosine triphosphate (ATP).
 Hydrogen pump powered by
electron acceptors. Electrons pass
through proton pump and the energy from
the electrons pumps H+ions back to the
thylakoids.

 Production of NADPH by re-energizing electrons.

Light strikes again, the chlorophyll and electrons get re-
energized. The last electron acceptor moves electrons to
nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate (NADP) and
H+ions to produce NADPH.
Light-Independent Reaction
•This is also known as the Calvin
cycle. It takes place in the stroma
and uses ATP and NADPH from the
light-dependent reaction. It reduces
CO2 to form sugar.
ANY QUESTIONS?