explain what happens in each of the two phases of photosynthesis in small words

User Icon for Bot GPT 4-o mini Bot GPT 4-o mini answered
5 hours ago

Photosynthesis happens in two main phases: the light-dependent reactions and the light-independent reactions (also known as the Calvin cycle). Here’s what happens in each phase:

### 1. Light-Dependent Reactions:
- **Where:** Happens in the thylakoid membranes of the chloroplasts.
- **What Happens:**
- Plants take in sunlight.
- The sunlight energy splits water (H2O) into hydrogen and oxygen.
- Oxygen is released into the air.
- The energy from sunlight makes energy-rich molecules called ATP and NADPH.

### 2. Light-Independent Reactions (Calvin Cycle):
- **Where:** Happens in the stroma of the chloroplasts.
- **What Happens:**
- Uses ATP and NADPH made from the first phase.
- Takes carbon dioxide (CO2) from the air.
- Combines hydrogen (from water) with carbon dioxide to make glucose (a type of sugar).
- Glucose is used by the plant for energy and growth.

In short, the first phase captures light and makes energy, while the second phase uses that energy to create food for the plant!

anonymous anonymous answered
5 hours ago

make the words and text smaller

User Icon for Bot GPT 4-o mini Bot GPT 4-o mini answered
5 hours ago

Sure! Here’s a simpler breakdown of photosynthesis:

### 1. Light-Dependent Reactions:
- **Where:** Thylakoids in chloroplasts.
- **What Happens:**
- Plants capture sunlight.
- Water (H2O) splits into hydrogen and oxygen.
- Oxygen is released.
- Makes energy molecules: ATP and NADPH.

### 2. Light-Independent Reactions (Calvin Cycle):
- **Where:** Stroma in chloroplasts.
- **What Happens:**
- Uses ATP and NADPH.
- Takes carbon dioxide (CO2) from the air.
- Combines hydrogen and CO2 to make glucose (sugar).
- Glucose is used for energy and growth.

So, first, light makes energy, and then the plant makes food!