Photosynthesis is a really interesting process! It has two main parts: the light-dependent reactions and the light-independent reactions, also known as the Calvin cycle.
1. Light-Dependent Reactions:
Where do they happen? These reactions take place in the thylakoid membranes inside chloroplasts, which are special parts of plant cells.
What happens during this stage? Sunlight is captured by a green pigment called chlorophyll. This energy helps break apart water molecules. When this happens, oxygen is released into the air. At the same time, energy-rich molecules called ATP and NADPH are made.
2. Light-Independent Reactions (Calvin Cycle):
Where do they happen? These reactions occur in the stroma, the fluid part of chloroplasts.
What happens during this stage? Using the ATP and NADPH created in the first stage, the plant traps carbon dioxide from the air. Then, through a series of reactions, it turns this carbon dioxide into glucose, a type of sugar.
Both stages are super important because they change sunlight into chemical energy. This is what plants use to grow and thrive. It’s amazing how plants produce their own food while also giving off oxygen that we need to breathe!
Photosynthesis is a really interesting process! It has two main parts: the light-dependent reactions and the light-independent reactions, also known as the Calvin cycle.
1. Light-Dependent Reactions:
Where do they happen? These reactions take place in the thylakoid membranes inside chloroplasts, which are special parts of plant cells.
What happens during this stage? Sunlight is captured by a green pigment called chlorophyll. This energy helps break apart water molecules. When this happens, oxygen is released into the air. At the same time, energy-rich molecules called ATP and NADPH are made.
2. Light-Independent Reactions (Calvin Cycle):
Where do they happen? These reactions occur in the stroma, the fluid part of chloroplasts.
What happens during this stage? Using the ATP and NADPH created in the first stage, the plant traps carbon dioxide from the air. Then, through a series of reactions, it turns this carbon dioxide into glucose, a type of sugar.
Both stages are super important because they change sunlight into chemical energy. This is what plants use to grow and thrive. It’s amazing how plants produce their own food while also giving off oxygen that we need to breathe!