Using the Products of the Light-Dependent Reaction (OCR A Level Biology)

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Using the Products of the Light-Dependent Reaction

  • Photosynthesis occurs in two stages: the light-dependent stage, which takes place in the thylakoids, and the light-independent stage, which takes place in the stroma
  • During the light-dependent stage of photosynthesis:
    • Reduced NADP is produced when hydrogen ions combine with the carrier molecule NADP using electrons from the photolysis of water
    • ATP is produced from ADP and Pi by ATP synthase in a process called photophosphorylation (ADP + Pi → ATP)
    • Photophosphorylation uses the proton (H+) gradient generated by the photolysis of water
    • Energy from ATP and hydrogen from reduced NADP are passed from the light-dependent stage to the light-independent stage of photosynthesis

  • The energy and hydrogen are used during the light-independent reactions (known collectively as the Calvin cycle) to produce complex organic molecules, including (but not limited to) carbohydrates, such as:
    • Starch (for storage)
    • Sucrose (for translocation around the plant)
    • Cellulose (for making cell walls)

The two stages of photosynthesis, downloadable AS & A Level Biology revision notes

Photosynthesis occurs in two, closely-linked stages: the light-dependent stage, which takes place in the thylakoids, and the light-independent stage, which takes place in the stroma

Examiner Tip

Remember, the whole purpose of the light-dependent stage is to produce ATP and reduced NADP, which are then used to complete the process of photosynthesis through the light-independent stage.

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Lára

Author: Lára

Expertise: Biology Lead

Lára graduated from Oxford University in Biological Sciences and has now been a science tutor working in the UK for several years. Lára has a particular interest in the area of infectious disease and epidemiology, and enjoys creating original educational materials that develop confidence and facilitate learning.