9700 · 13.1
Photosynthesis as an energy transfer process flashcards
Revision flashcards for Cambridge 9700 Photosynthesis as an energy transfer process (syllabus 13.1). Flip, recall, then mark a real past-paper question.
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What is the primary energy conversion that occurs during photosynthesis?
Photosynthesis converts light energy into chemical energy, which is stored in the bonds of organic molecules like glucose.
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What is the overall balanced chemical equation for photosynthesis?
6CO₂ + 6H₂O + Light Energy → C₆H₁₂O₆ + 6O₂
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Where in the chloroplast do the light-dependent reactions occur?
In the thylakoid membranes, which are stacked into grana.
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What are the two essential products of the light-dependent reactions that are used in the next stage?
ATP (a source of energy) and reduced NADP (a source of reducing power).
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What is the name of the process where water is split using light energy?
Photolysis. It produces electrons, protons (H+), and oxygen.
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Where in the chloroplast does the light-independent stage (Calvin cycle) take place?
In the stroma, the fluid-filled space surrounding the thylakoids.
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What is the role of the enzyme RuBisCO in the Calvin cycle?
RuBisCO catalyses the fixation of carbon dioxide (CO₂) by combining it with ribulose bisphosphate (RuBP).
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What is the difference between an absorption spectrum and an action spectrum?
An absorption spectrum shows which wavelengths of light a pigment absorbs, while an action spectrum shows the rate of photosynthesis at different wavelengths of light.