BI110 Chapter 28: Module 28 – Photosynthesis Overview
Document Summary
Photosynthesis is one of the most important biological processes on earth. Plants, algae, and certain bacteria capture light energy from the sun and synthesize the molecules that allow these organisms to function. This converted energy provides fuel for entire ecosystems of organisms. Pigments inside cells of plant absorb sun"s energy, initiating series of reactions that transfer electrons from water to coenzyme nadp+, releasing o2 and h+ in process. Electron transport coupled to movement of h+ into thylakoid lumen, establishing proton motive force. Protons spontaneously flow out of lumen, chemical potential energy thus released used to drive atp synthesis. Photosynthesis is the energy source for nearly all of earth"s ecosystems. Autotrophs self-feeders, able to produce food from inorganic compounds without having to consume other molecules (primary producers) Heterotrophs other-feeders, cannot synthesize food from inorganic materials, obtain their organic molecules by consuming autotrophs/other heterotrophs (consumers) An incidental consequence of the evolution of oxygenic photosynthesis was the release of o2 gas.
