Introduction to Photosynthesis

Discuss with your group: Where does the mass of a tree come from?

Photosynthesis at MIT

Photosynthesis

producers convert solar energy into chemical energy (glucose)

Autotrophs/Producers

Photosynthesis Equation

CO2 + H2O ——> C6H12O6 + O2

converts carbon dioxide into glucose

stores energy in chemical bonds of glucose

light

Chloroplast

site of photosynthesis

contains required enzymes & folded membranes (surface area)

contains chlorophyll (pigment used for light absorption)

Light vs. Dark Reactions

Light Reactions

Sun’s energy breaks water molecule, produces O2

Begins chain of energy producing reactions

Creates ATP!

Light vs. Dark Reactions

Dark Reactions

CO2 enters

Energy (ATP) from light reactions used to “fix carbon”

Creates sugar (glucose) building blocks

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