Photosynthesis

In this chapter, you will learn to:

• Explain how photosynthesis converts light energy into chemical energy stored in carbohydrates.

• Describe how the structure of chloroplasts supports their function.

• Explain the roles of chloroplast pigments and interpret absorption and action spectra.

• Use chromatography to separate chloroplast pigments and calculate their Rf values.

• Describe the reactions occurring during the light-dependent stage of photosynthesis, including both cyclic and non-cyclic photophosphorylation.

• Outline the processes involved in the light-independent stage of photosynthesis.

• Identify the main factors that limit photosynthesis and interpret graphs showing their effects on photosynthetic rate.

• Design and conduct experiments using aquatic plants to investigate how limiting factors affect photosynthesis.

• Investigate the impact of light intensity and wavelength on chloroplast suspensions using a redox indicator.