Photosynthesis

Light-Dependent Reaction:

Chlorophyll absorbs light, leading to photoionisation of chlorophyll.
Energy from electrons released during photoionisation is conserved in the production of ATP and reduced NADP.
ATP production involves electron transfer associated with the electron transfer chain, proton passage across chloroplast membranes, and catalysis by ATP synthase (chemiosomotic theory).
Photolysis of water produces protons, electrons and oxygen.
Light-dependent reaction provides reduced NADP and ATP for light-independent reaction.

Light-Independent Reaction:

Carbon dioxide reacts with ribulose bisphosphate (RuBP) to form two molecules of glycerate 3-phosphate (GP), facilitated by enzyme rubisco.
ATP and reduced NADP from light-dependent reaction reduce GP to triose phosphate.
Some of the triose phosphate regenerates RuBP in the Calvin cycle.
Some triose phosphate is converted to useful organic substances.

Other Important Information:

Should be able to identify environmental factors that limit photosynthesis rate.
Should be able to evaluate data on agricultural practises used to mitigate limiting factors’ effects.
Photosynthesis rate investigation methods and techniques should be revised.
Ability to interpret graphs representing multiple limiting factors is important.

Practical Skills: