Stages of photosynthesis

• There are two stages of photosynthesis:

  • the light dependent stage (Thylakoids)
  • Light independent stage (Stroma)
• Light dependent stage summary:

  • Reduced NADP is produced when hydrogen ions combine with the carrier molecule NADP using electrons from photolysis of water
  • ATP is produced in a process called photophosphorylation
  • uses the proto gradient generated by photolysis of water
  • energy from ATP and hydrogen from reduced NADP are passed from light dependent stage to light independent stage of photosynthesis
• Summary of light independent stage

  • energy and hydrogen (from light dependent stage) are used
  • takes place in reactions known collectively as the Calvin cycle
  • Complex organic molecules are produced, including (not limited to) carbohydrates e.g:
  • starch (storage)
  • Sucrose (Translocation around plant)
  • Cellulose (cell walls)
• Diagram

  
• Purpose of light-dependent reactions is to produce ATP and reduced NADP. These are supplied into stroma and used to complete the process of photosynthesis through light independent reactions