Izzaaz Haaziq Hishamudin
Life Science Lab Report.
Section 808
Photosynthesis.
19th of October 2012.
Introduction
Definition: Photosynthesis is the physico-chemical process by which plants, algae and photosynthetic bacteria use light energy to drive the synthesis of organic compounds. In plants, algae and certain types of bacteria, the photosynthetic process results in the release of molecular oxygen and the removal of carbon dioxide from the atmosphere that is used to synthesize carbohydrates (oxygenic photosynthesis) Whitmarsh, John. "THE PHOTOSYNTHETIC PROCESS." Life Science. N.p., n.d. Web. 16 Oct. 2012. <http://www.life.illinois.edu/govindjee/paper/gov.html>.
Photosynthesis equation: 6CO2 + 6H2O + Energy C6H12O6 + 6O2
Light reaction: The light reaction happens in the thylakoid membrane and converts to chemical energy from light energy. Therefore, this reaction must take place in the light. Chlorophyll and several other pigments like beta carotene are organized in clusters in the thylakoid membrane and are involved in the light reaction.
Dark reaction: The dark reaction occurs in the stroma, inside the chloroplast, and converts carbon dioxide to sugar. Although this reaction does not need light energy for it to take place, it does need ATP and NADPH. Dark reaction also includes the “Calvin cycle,” where carbon dioxide and the energy from ATP are used to make sugar.

Chloroplast structure: An outer and inner membrane. Inside the inner membrane is a mix of enzymes and water, which is called a stroma. Embedded in the stroma is the granum, and a stack of that makes up the thylakoid. Each thylakoid has a series of photosystems that contain chlorophyll.
Why should we care about plants?
- Plants play a really important role in our eco-system and the life cycle. Almost all plants are the primary producers of food for other animals. They are also