Here's a simplified overview:
1. Light-dependent reactions:
* Light energy is captured by chlorophyll and used to split water molecules, releasing electrons and generating ATP and NADPH.
2. Carbon fixation (Calvin Cycle):
* CO2 from the atmosphere is incorporated into a 5-carbon sugar molecule called ribulose-1,5-bisphosphate (RuBP). This reaction is catalyzed by the enzyme Rubisco.
* The unstable 6-carbon intermediate quickly splits into two molecules of 3-phosphoglycerate (3-PGA).
* ATP and NADPH from the light-dependent reactions are used to convert 3-PGA into glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate (G3P).
* Some G3P molecules are used to regenerate RuBP, continuing the cycle.
* Other G3P molecules are used to build glucose and other carbohydrates.
Key points:
* The process of forming C-C bonds in carbohydrates is not a direct result of light energy. Instead, light energy is used to produce ATP and NADPH, which then provide the energy and reducing power needed for carbon fixation.
* The Calvin Cycle involves a series of complex reactions, each catalyzed by a specific enzyme.
* The overall reaction can be summarized as: 6CO2 + 6H2O → C6H12O6 + 6O2.
This process is essential for life on Earth, as it converts inorganic carbon into organic compounds, providing the basis for the food chain.