series of reactions that use energy from the Sun to convert carbon dioxide (CO2) into carbohydrates. These reactions take place in chloroplasts of plant and algal cells.
What energy does photosynthesis convert?
converts light energy into chemical energy.
This chemical energy is stored in carbohydrates (e.g. glucose) and other biological molecules.
Chemical energy can then be transferred to all other organisms by consuming plants.
Equation for photosynthesis
Carbon dioxide + water → oxygen + glucose
6CO2 + 6H2O → 6O2 + C6H12O6
The reaction requires light energy to take place.
two main stages of photosynthesis
Stage 1: light-dependent reaction.
Stage 2: light-independent reaction.
Light dependent reaction
first stage of photosynthesis. reaction is initiated when light energy is absorbed by chlorophyll in the chloroplasts.
Light independent reaction
The reaction is initiated when light energy is absorbed by chlorophyll in the chloroplasts.
two molecules produced by light dependent reaction
