PHOTOSYNTHESISHow light is captured by plants to make food

PHOTOSYNTHESISPhotosynthesis is a process by which light

energy is converted into chemical energy of sugars and other organic compounds

Light energy from light drives the reactions. Photosynthesis equation:

6 CO2 + 6 H2O → 6(CH2O) + 6 O2

Electromagnetic EnergyThe solar energy called visible light drives

photosynthesis. Solar radiation is composed of

electromagnetic energyRemember, energy cannot be created

or destroyed. When light is absorbed by

a green plant, a small portion of that energy is converted into chemical energy in the process of photosynthesis.

Why are plants green?

Chloroplast StructureChloroplasts are the sites of photosynthesis. These double-membrane bound organelles

enclose additional membranes called thylakoids.

Plants are green because they have a substance called chlorophyll in them.

Chlorophyll absorbs red and blue light but reflect green light!

                                                            

The chlorophyll samples show peaks ofabsorbance at wavelengths in the blue and red areas of the visible spectrum.

STAGES OF PHOTO-

SYNTHESIS

Redwood tree in California- 380 feet tall

PHOTOSYNTHESIS

Overview of PhotosynthesisSTAGE 1 - THE LIGHT DEPENDENT

REACTIONS.

Energy is captured from Sunlight. Water is Split into Hydrogen Ions, Electrons, and Oxygen (O2). The O2 Diffuses out of the Chloroplasts (Byproduct).

Overview of PhotosynthesisSTAGE 2 -

The Light Energy is Converted to Chemical Energy, which is Temporarily Stored in ATP and NADPH.

Overview of PhotosynthesisSTAGE 3 -THE CALVIN CYCLE

The Chemical Energy Stored in ATP and NADPH powers the formation of Organic Compounds (Sugars), using Carbon Dioxide, CO2.

Overview of Photosynthesis