What are the stages of photosynthesis?

Photosynthesis is a complex process that occurs in the chloroplasts of plant cells. It can be divided into two main stages: the light-dependent reactions and the light-independent reactions, also known as the Calvin cycle. During the light-dependent reactions, light energy is absorbed by chlorophyll molecules in the thylakoid membrane, which triggers a series of chemical reactions. These reactions produce ATP (adenosine triphosphate) and NADPH (nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate), which are energy-rich molecules used in the next stage. The light-independent reactions take place in the stroma of the chloroplasts and involve the conversion of carbon dioxide into glucose using the ATP and NADPH produced during the light-dependent reactions. This stage is also called the Calvin cycle or carbon fixation. Overall, photosynthesis is a vital process that converts sunlight into chemical energy, providing organisms with the essential molecules they need for growth and survival.

Photosynthesis Stages Light Reactions Calvin Cycle Chloroplasts