Photo AI
10. Describe the process of photosynthesis - Leaving Cert Chemistry - Question 10 - 2020
Question 10
10. Describe the process of photosynthesis. - Explain where the process takes place within the plant cell.
Worked Solution & Example Answer:10. Describe the process of photosynthesis - Leaving Cert Chemistry - Question 10 - 2020
Step 1
Describe the process of photosynthesis.
Answer
Photosynthesis is the biochemical process through which green plants, algae, and some bacteria convert light energy into chemical energy stored in glucose. This process primarily occurs in the chloroplasts of plant cells.
The overall equation for photosynthesis can be summarized as follows:
ightarrow C_6H_{12}O_6 + 6 O_2$$ In this process, carbon dioxide (CO₂) and water (H₂O) are utilized in the presence of sunlight to produce glucose (C₆H₁₂O₆) and oxygen (O₂). Photosynthesis consists of two main stages: the light-dependent reactions and the light-independent reactions (Calvin cycle). During the light-dependent reactions, which occur in the thylakoid membranes of the chloroplasts, light energy is captured by chlorophyll and converted into chemical energy in the form of ATP and NADPH. Water molecules are split, releasing oxygen as a byproduct. The Calvin cycle occurs in the stroma of the chloroplasts, where the ATP and NADPH generated in the light-dependent reactions are used to convert carbon dioxide into glucose. This cycle involves a series of reactions that ultimately result in the production of glucose, which can be used for energy or stored for later use.Step 2
Explain where the process takes place within the plant cell.
Answer
Photosynthesis takes place primarily in the chloroplasts of plant cells. Chloroplasts are specialized organelles that contain chlorophyll, the green pigment crucial for capturing light energy. The structure of a chloroplast includes thylakoid membranes, where the light-dependent reactions occur, and the stroma, where the light-independent reactions (Calvin cycle) take place. Thus, the arrangement of the chloroplast facilitates the efficient conversion of light energy into chemical energy.