What is Photosynthesis? Process, Types, examples & Equation
Photosynthesis is the process by which plants, algae, and some bacteria convert light energy from the sun into chemical energy in the form of organic compounds, such as glucose. This process is essential for life on Earth, as it provides the energy and organic compounds needed to support the food chain.
Photosynthesis occurs in specialized organelles called chloroplasts, which are present in plant cells. Chloroplasts contain pigments such as chlorophyll, which absorbs light energy and transfers it to a molecule called ATP (adenosine triphosphate), which is the energy currency of the cell.
The overall equation for photosynthesis is:
6 CO2 + 6 H2O + light energy → C6H12O6 (glucose) + 6 O2
There are two stages to photosynthesis:
1. Light-dependent reactions (light reaction): Light energy is absorbed and converted into ATP and NADPH.
2. Light-independent reactions (Calvin cycle): ATP and NADPH are used to convert CO2 into glucose.
Photosynthesis has two main types:
1. Oxygenic photosynthesis (plants, algae, cyanobacteria): Produces oxygen as a byproduct.
2. Anoxygenic photosynthesis (some bacteria): Does not produce oxygen.
Photosynthesis is a complex process, but it can be summarized into three main steps:
1. Light absorption
2. Energy conversion
3. Carbon fixation
I hope this helps! Let me know if you have any further questions.
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