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Chapter 7: Capturing Solar Energy: Photosynthesis At a Glance

Case Study: Did the Dinosaurs Die from Lack of Sunlight?

7.1 What Is Photosynthesis?

• Leaves and Chloroplasts Are Adaptations for Photosynthesis
• Photosynthesis Consists of Light-Dependent and Light-Independent Reactions

7.2 Light-Dependent Reactions: How Is Light Energy Converted to Chemical Energy?

• During Photosynthesis, Light Is First Captured by Pigments in Chloroplasts
• The Light-Dependent Reactions Occur Within the Thylakoid Membranes
  Photosystem II Generates ATP
  Photosystem I Generates NADPH
  Splitting Water Maintains the Flow of Electrons Through the Photosystems

A Closer Look: Chemiosmosis—ATP Synthesis in Chloroplasts

7.3 Light-Independent Reactions: How Is Chemical Energy Stored in Glucose Molecules?

• The C₃ Cycle Captures Carbon Dioxide
• Carbon Fixed During the C₃ Cycle Is Used to Synthesize Glucose

7.4 What Is the Relationship Between Light-Dependent and Light-Independent Reactions?

7.5 Water, CO₂, and the C₄ Pathway

• When Stomata Are Closed to Conserve Water, Wasteful Photorespiration Occurs
• C₄ Plants Reduce Photorespiration by Means of a Two-Stage Carbon-Fixation Process
• C₃ and C₄ Plants Are Each Adapted to Different Environmental Conditions

Case Study Revisited: Did the Dinosaurs Die from Lack of Sunlight?

Links to Life: You Owe Your Life to Plants