Oxygenic photosynthesis

Definition

Oxygenic photosynthesis is the process by which certain organisms convert light energy into chemical energy, producing oxygen as a byproduct. This process mainly occurs in plants, algae, and cyanobacteria.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Oxygenic photosynthesis occurs in chloroplasts of eukaryotic cells and in the thylakoid membranes of cyanobacteria.
2. The general equation for oxygenic photosynthesis is: 6CO2 + 6H2O + light energy → C6H12O6 + 6O2.
3. It involves two main stages: the light-dependent reactions and the Calvin cycle (light-independent reactions).
4. The primary pigment involved is chlorophyll-a, which absorbs light most efficiently in the blue-violet and red regions of the electromagnetic spectrum.
5. Water molecules are split during the light-dependent reactions to release oxygen, protons, and electrons.

Review Questions

Related terms

Chlorophyll-a: A primary pigment involved in capturing light energy for photosynthesis.

Calvin Cycle:

A series of biochemical reactions that take place in the stroma of chloroplasts during photosynthesis; it does not require light.

Thylakoid Membrane: The site within chloroplasts where the light-dependent reactions of photosynthesis occur.