b. The Process of Photosynthesis

In this topic we learn about the reactants and products of the light-dependent and light-independent reactions of photosynthesis. Watch the video and take your guided notes. Be phenomenal on your topic quiz!

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Photosynthesis infographic illustrating light-dependent and light-independent reactions, depicting reactants like light, water, ADP+P, and products including oxygen, ATP, carbon dioxide, NADPH, glucose, ADP+P, NADP+ for biology students and educators.
Photosynthesis: Light-Dependent vs Light-Independent (Calvin Cycle)
Biology • Georgia Standards (SB1)

Photosynthesis: Light‑Dependent vs Light‑Independent Processes

Quick Read: Big Picture (7th‑grade level)

Photosynthesis happens in plant leaf cells inside chloroplasts. It has two linked parts. The light‑dependent reactions use sunlight to make energy carriers ATP and NADPH and release oxygen gas (O2). The light‑independent reactions—also called the Calvin Cycle—use CO2, ATP, and NADPH to build glucose. Sunlight powers the first part; the second part builds food.

Light‑Dependent (Thylakoid) Light‑Independent (Stroma)

Diagram: Chloroplast Map

Drag labels to the correct parts.

Thylakoid Membrane Granum (Stack) Stroma

Dropdown Check: Match Each Process

Light‑Dependent
Light‑Independent
Location (L‑D)
Location (L‑I)

Order the Steps

Drag each step into the correct order from left to right.

Sunlight excites electrons (PSII) Electrons re‑energized (PSI) → NADPH Electron transport chain pumps H+ H+ flow turns ATP synthase → ATP

Mini‑Graph: Light Intensity vs Photosynthesis Rate

Study the graph, then answer the question.

Rate Light Intensity near saturation

Milestones‑Style Questions (5)

1. Which inputs are directly used by the Calvin Cycle? (multi‑select)

2. Oxygen forms when water is split in the light‑dependent reactions. What is the main purpose of this water‑splitting step?

3. Put the Calvin Cycle stages in order.

Carbon Fixation Regeneration of RuBP Reduction (uses ATP & NADPH)

4. Select the statement that best compares the two parts.

5. Which two products from the light‑dependent reactions directly power the Calvin Cycle? (multi‑select)

Tip: If something is marked incorrect, try moving labels, re‑ordering steps, or changing choices, then press Check Answers again.

Youtube video 'Photosynthesis 101', Guided notes taker, Topic quiz