Photosynthesis

Definition

Photosynthesis is a biochemical process by which phototrophic organisms convert light energy into chemical energy, storing it in the bonds of glucose molecules. This process primarily occurs in chlorophyll-containing cells and involves both light-dependent and light-independent reactions.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Photosynthesis occurs in two main stages: the light-dependent reactions and the Calvin cycle (light-independent reactions).
2. In prokaryotic phototrophs, such as cyanobacteria, photosynthesis takes place in thylakoid membranes.
3. The primary pigment involved in photosynthesis is chlorophyll, which absorbs light most efficiently at specific wavelengths.
4. Oxygenic photosynthesis produces oxygen as a byproduct, while anoxygenic photosynthesis does not produce oxygen.
5. Archaea do not perform traditional photosynthesis but some utilize a form of photophosphorylation involving bacteriorhodopsin.

Review Questions

• What are the two main stages of photosynthesis and where do they occur in prokaryotic cells?
• What distinguishes oxygenic from anoxygenic photosynthesis?
• Which pigments are primarily involved in the process of photosynthesis?

Related terms

Thylakoid Membranes:

Structures within cyanobacteria where the light-dependent reactions of photosynthesis occur.

Chlorophyll:

A green pigment crucial for absorbing light energy during the process of photosynthesis.

Bacteriorhodopsin: A protein used by archaea for a type of photophosphorylation that does not involve chlorophyll.