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Process

Photosynthesis

Photosynthesis

The capture of light energy and transfer of carbon from carbon dioxide into organic molecules by plants, algae, and some bacteria.

Overview

EXPLORE BY LEVEL

Photosynthesis uses energy from light to help build energy-rich molecules from and water. In oxygen-producing photosynthesis, oxygen is released when water is split.

Quick Facts

AT A GLANCE
TopicPhotosynthesis & Carbon Cycle

Follow the Connections

See how Photosynthesis links to other biological records.

Open network
ProcessLight-dependent ReactionsincludesProcessCalvin CycleincludesCell componentChloroplastoccurs inProcessCarbon Cycleincludes
All 7 Structured Connections
Photosynthesis · ProcessINCLUDES →Light-dependent Reactions · Process
Photosynthesis · ProcessINCLUDES →Calvin Cycle · Process
Photosynthesis · ProcessOCCURS IN →Chloroplast · Cell component
Carbon Cycle · ProcessINCLUDES →Photosynthesis · Process
Photosynthesis · ProcessCONTRIBUTES TO →Carbon Cycle · Process
Photosynthesis · ProcessCONTRASTS WITH →Cellular Respiration · Process
Cyanobacteria · TaxonPERFORMS →Photosynthesis · Process

Recommended Reading

Trusted references for learning more about Photosynthesis.

textbookOverview of PhotosynthesisOpenStax Biology 2e textbookThe Light-Dependent Reactions of PhotosynthesisOpenStax Biology 2e guideMatter and Energy in Organisms and EcosystemsNext Generation Science Standards textbookBiogeochemical CyclesOpenStax Biology 2e
Research Claims

Photosynthetic carbon assimilation couples photochemistry, electron transport, proton-motive force, ATP/NADPH turnover, and carbon fixation. The balance and regulation vary among taxa and conditions; plants, algae, and cyanobacteria do not all organize the machinery identically.