Subjects
Biology
Chemistry
AP Chemistry
English
AP English Literature
Biology
Dec 10, 2025
151
5 pages
Olivia @oliviag
Ever wondered how plants make their own food whilst you're stuck buying yours from Tesco? Photosynthesis is literally... Show more
Think of plants as the ultimate independent organisms - they're autotrophs, meaning they create their own food instead of hunting for it like we do. They pull this off by capturing sunlight and converting it into chemical energy stored in carbohydrates, basically splitting water molecules and combining the hydrogen with carbon dioxide.
Here's the magic formula you need to memorise carbon dioxide + water → glucose + oxygen (using light energy). In chemical terms, that's 6CO₂ + 6H₂O → C₆H₁₂O₆ + 6O₂.
The crucial thing to remember about energy is that it can't be created or destroyed - only converted from one form to another. Plants are essentially solar-powered sugar factories, and without them, life on Earth would be impossible.
Quick Tip The oxygen you're breathing right now? That's a byproduct of photosynthesis happening in plants around the world!
Chloroplasts are where all the photosynthesis action happens - think of them as tiny green power stations inside plant cells. They're packed with membrane discs called thylakoids that stack up like pancakes to form structures called granum.
The space around these stacks is called the stroma, which contains all the enzymes needed to make ATP and build complex organic molecules. It's basically the chloroplast's workshop where the final products get assembled.
Each part has a specific job the outer and inner membranes control what goes in and out, whilst the thylakoids are where the light-catching happens. Understanding this structure is crucial because each process of photosynthesis occurs in a specific location.
Remember Stroma = workshop, Thylakoids = solar panels, Granum = stack of panels!
Plants don't just have one type of chlorophyll - they've got a whole team of pigments working together. There's chlorophyll a , chlorophyll b , and the carotenoids like orange carotene and yellow xanthophyll.
Having different pigments is like having multiple types of solar panels - each one captures different wavelengths of light, making the whole system more efficient. Chlorophyll a is the main player found in all photosynthesising plants.
These pigments don't just float around randomly - they're attached to proteins on the thylakoid membranes. When a pigment molecule teams up with its protein, they form a photosystem, which is basically a light-harvesting unit.
Fun Fact The reason leaves change colour in autumn is because chlorophyll breaks down, revealing the other pigments that were there all along!
Before diving deeper into photosynthesis, you need to master REDOX reactions . Remember the handy acronym OIL RIG Oxidation Is Loss (of electrons), Reduction Is Gain (of electrons).
In biological terms, gaining hydrogen or losing oxygen means reduction, whilst losing hydrogen or gaining oxygen means oxidation. These always happen together - if something gets oxidised, something else must get reduced.
Take NADP, a crucial molecule in photosynthesis. When it gains hydrogen , it becomes reduced NADP. When it loses hydrogen , it gets oxidised back to its original form.
Study Tip Think of NADP as a rechargeable battery - it can either give energy (oxidised) or store energy (reduced)!
Photosynthesis isn't a single reaction - it's a complex two-stage process that's beautifully coordinated. The light-dependent reactions happen first on the thylakoid membranes, followed by the light-independent reactions in the stroma.
Light-dependent reactions only occur during daylight and use solar energy to split water molecules (photolysis). This produces hydrogen atoms that get passed to NADP (forming NADPH) and generates ATP through photophosphorylation.
Light-independent reactions (also called the Calvin cycle) can happen anytime and use the NADPH and ATP from stage one. This is where CO₂ from the air gets reduced and converted into glucose in the stroma.
Key Point Stage one captures and stores energy, stage two uses that stored energy to build glucose - it's like charging a battery then using it to power something!
Our AI companion is specifically built for the needs of students. Based on the millions of content pieces we have on the platform we can provide truly meaningful and relevant answers to students. But its not only about answers, the companion is even more about guiding students through their daily learning challenges, with personalised study plans, quizzes or content pieces in the chat and 100% personalisation based on the students skills and developments.
You can download the app in the Google Play Store and in the Apple App Store.
That's right! Enjoy free access to study content, connect with fellow students, and get instant help – all at your fingertips.
1
Smart Tools NEW
Transform this note into: ✓ 50+ Practice Questions ✓ Interactive Flashcards ✓ Full Mock Exam ✓ Essay Outlines
Explore the intricate processes of photosynthesis, including the light-dependent reactions and the Calvin cycle. This summary covers key concepts such as electron transport, ATP production, and the roles of chlorophyll and NADPH. Understand how glucose is synthesized and its various uses in plant metabolism. Ideal for higher biology students seeking a comprehensive overview of photosynthesis.
BiologyExplore the intricate processes of photosynthesis, including the light-dependent and light-independent reactions. This summary covers key concepts such as the role of chlorophyll, the Calvin cycle, and the impact of limiting factors like light intensity and carbon dioxide concentration. Ideal for students seeking a comprehensive understanding of plant biology.
BiologyExplore key concepts of photosynthesis with targeted revision questions aligned with the EDUQAS A Level Biology Specification. This resource covers chloroplast structure, light-dependent and light-independent reactions, and factors influencing photosynthesis, making it ideal for exam preparation.
BiologyExplore the intricate processes of photosynthesis, including light-dependent and light-independent reactions, pigment chromatography, and the role of chloroplasts. This summary covers key concepts such as photolysis, electron transport chains, and the Calvin cycle, providing a comprehensive understanding for AQA Biology students. Ideal for exam preparation and practical investigations.
BiologyExplore the process of chemiosmosis in photosynthesis, detailing the light-dependent reactions that occur in the thylakoid membranes. This study note covers the electron transport chain, ATP synthesis via ATP synthase, and the role of NADPH. Ideal for AQA Biology students preparing for exams.
BiologyExplore the intricate processes of photosynthesis, including the light-dependent reactions in thylakoids and the Calvin cycle in the stroma. This summary covers key concepts such as temperature effects, NADPH production, and limiting factors affecting photosynthesis rates. Ideal for AQA A-Level Biology students seeking a comprehensive understanding of photosynthesis.
BiologyApp Store
Google Play
The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
Android user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
I think it’s very much worth it and you’ll end up using it a lot once you get the hang of it and even after looking at others notes you can still ask your Artificial intelligence buddy the question and ask to simplify it if you still don’t get it!!! In the end I think it’s worth it 😊👍 ⚠️Also DID I MENTION ITS FREEE YOU DON’T HAVE TO PAY FOR ANYTHING AND STILL GET YOUR GRADES IN PERFECTLY❗️❗️⚠️
Thomas R
iOS user
Knowunity is the BEST app I’ve used in a minute. This is not an ai review or anything this is genuinely coming from a 7th grade student (I know 2011 im young) but dude this app is a 10/10 i have maintained a 3.8 gpa and have plenty of time for gaming. I love it and my mom is just happy I got good grades
Brad T
Android user
Not only did it help me find the answer but it also showed me alternative ways to solve it. I was horrible in math and science but now I have an a in both subjects. Thanks for the help🤍🤍
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
I found this app a couple years ago and it has only gotten better since then. I really love it because it can help with written questions and photo questions. Also, it can find study guides that other people have made as well as flashcard sets and practice tests. The free version is also amazing for students who might not be able to afford it. Would 100% recommend
Aubrey
iOS user
Best app if you're in Highschool or Junior high. I have been using this app for 2 school years and it's the best, it's good if you don't have anyone to help you with school work.😋🩷🎀
Marco B
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
Elisha
iOS user
This app is phenomenal down to the correct info and the various topics you can study! I greatly recommend it for people who struggle with procrastination and those who need homework help. It has been perfectly accurate for world 1 history as far as I’ve seen! Geometry too!
Paul T
iOS user
The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
Android user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
I think it’s very much worth it and you’ll end up using it a lot once you get the hang of it and even after looking at others notes you can still ask your Artificial intelligence buddy the question and ask to simplify it if you still don’t get it!!! In the end I think it’s worth it 😊👍 ⚠️Also DID I MENTION ITS FREEE YOU DON’T HAVE TO PAY FOR ANYTHING AND STILL GET YOUR GRADES IN PERFECTLY❗️❗️⚠️
Thomas R
iOS user
Knowunity is the BEST app I’ve used in a minute. This is not an ai review or anything this is genuinely coming from a 7th grade student (I know 2011 im young) but dude this app is a 10/10 i have maintained a 3.8 gpa and have plenty of time for gaming. I love it and my mom is just happy I got good grades
Brad T
Android user
Not only did it help me find the answer but it also showed me alternative ways to solve it. I was horrible in math and science but now I have an a in both subjects. Thanks for the help🤍🤍
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
I found this app a couple years ago and it has only gotten better since then. I really love it because it can help with written questions and photo questions. Also, it can find study guides that other people have made as well as flashcard sets and practice tests. The free version is also amazing for students who might not be able to afford it. Would 100% recommend
Aubrey
iOS user
Best app if you're in Highschool or Junior high. I have been using this app for 2 school years and it's the best, it's good if you don't have anyone to help you with school work.😋🩷🎀
Marco B
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
Elisha
iOS user
This app is phenomenal down to the correct info and the various topics you can study! I greatly recommend it for people who struggle with procrastination and those who need homework help. It has been perfectly accurate for world 1 history as far as I’ve seen! Geometry too!
Paul T
iOS user
Olivia
@oliviag
Ever wondered how plants make their own food whilst you're stuck buying yours from Tesco? Photosynthesis is literally the foundation of all life on Earth - it's how plants capture sunlight and turn it into the energy that feeds pretty... Show more
Access to all documents
Improve your grades
Join milions of students
By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy
Think of plants as the ultimate independent organisms - they're autotrophs, meaning they create their own food instead of hunting for it like we do. They pull this off by capturing sunlight and converting it into chemical energy stored in carbohydrates, basically splitting water molecules and combining the hydrogen with carbon dioxide.
Here's the magic formula you need to memorise: carbon dioxide + water → glucose + oxygen (using light energy). In chemical terms, that's 6CO₂ + 6H₂O → C₆H₁₂O₆ + 6O₂.
The crucial thing to remember about energy is that it can't be created or destroyed - only converted from one form to another. Plants are essentially solar-powered sugar factories, and without them, life on Earth would be impossible.
Quick Tip: The oxygen you're breathing right now? That's a byproduct of photosynthesis happening in plants around the world!
Access to all documents
Improve your grades
Join milions of students
By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy
Chloroplasts are where all the photosynthesis action happens - think of them as tiny green power stations inside plant cells. They're packed with membrane discs called thylakoids that stack up like pancakes to form structures called granum.
The space around these stacks is called the stroma, which contains all the enzymes needed to make ATP and build complex organic molecules. It's basically the chloroplast's workshop where the final products get assembled.
Each part has a specific job: the outer and inner membranes control what goes in and out, whilst the thylakoids are where the light-catching happens. Understanding this structure is crucial because each process of photosynthesis occurs in a specific location.
Remember: Stroma = workshop, Thylakoids = solar panels, Granum = stack of panels!
Access to all documents
Improve your grades
Join milions of students
By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy
Plants don't just have one type of chlorophyll - they've got a whole team of pigments working together. There's chlorophyll a , chlorophyll b , and the carotenoids like orange carotene and yellow xanthophyll.
Having different pigments is like having multiple types of solar panels - each one captures different wavelengths of light, making the whole system more efficient. Chlorophyll a is the main player found in all photosynthesising plants.
These pigments don't just float around randomly - they're attached to proteins on the thylakoid membranes. When a pigment molecule teams up with its protein, they form a photosystem, which is basically a light-harvesting unit.
Fun Fact: The reason leaves change colour in autumn is because chlorophyll breaks down, revealing the other pigments that were there all along!
Access to all documents
Improve your grades
Join milions of students
By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy
Before diving deeper into photosynthesis, you need to master REDOX reactions . Remember the handy acronym OIL RIG: Oxidation Is Loss (of electrons), Reduction Is Gain (of electrons).
In biological terms, gaining hydrogen or losing oxygen means reduction, whilst losing hydrogen or gaining oxygen means oxidation. These always happen together - if something gets oxidised, something else must get reduced.
Take NADP, a crucial molecule in photosynthesis. When it gains hydrogen , it becomes reduced NADP. When it loses hydrogen , it gets oxidised back to its original form.
Study Tip: Think of NADP as a rechargeable battery - it can either give energy (oxidised) or store energy (reduced)!
Access to all documents
Improve your grades
Join milions of students
By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy
Photosynthesis isn't a single reaction - it's a complex two-stage process that's beautifully coordinated. The light-dependent reactions happen first on the thylakoid membranes, followed by the light-independent reactions in the stroma.
Light-dependent reactions only occur during daylight and use solar energy to split water molecules (photolysis). This produces hydrogen atoms that get passed to NADP (forming NADPH) and generates ATP through photophosphorylation.
Light-independent reactions (also called the Calvin cycle) can happen anytime and use the NADPH and ATP from stage one. This is where CO₂ from the air gets reduced and converted into glucose in the stroma.
Key Point: Stage one captures and stores energy, stage two uses that stored energy to build glucose - it's like charging a battery then using it to power something!
Our AI companion is specifically built for the needs of students. Based on the millions of content pieces we have on the platform we can provide truly meaningful and relevant answers to students. But its not only about answers, the companion is even more about guiding students through their daily learning challenges, with personalised study plans, quizzes or content pieces in the chat and 100% personalisation based on the students skills and developments.
You can download the app in the Google Play Store and in the Apple App Store.
That's right! Enjoy free access to study content, connect with fellow students, and get instant help – all at your fingertips.
1
Smart Tools NEW
Transform this note into: ✓ 50+ Practice Questions ✓ Interactive Flashcards ✓ Full Mock Exam ✓ Essay Outlines
Explore the intricate processes of photosynthesis, including the light-dependent reactions and the Calvin cycle. This summary covers key concepts such as electron transport, ATP production, and the roles of chlorophyll and NADPH. Understand how glucose is synthesized and its various uses in plant metabolism. Ideal for higher biology students seeking a comprehensive overview of photosynthesis.
BiologyExplore the intricate processes of photosynthesis, including the light-dependent and light-independent reactions. This summary covers key concepts such as the role of chlorophyll, the Calvin cycle, and the impact of limiting factors like light intensity and carbon dioxide concentration. Ideal for students seeking a comprehensive understanding of plant biology.
BiologyExplore key concepts of photosynthesis with targeted revision questions aligned with the EDUQAS A Level Biology Specification. This resource covers chloroplast structure, light-dependent and light-independent reactions, and factors influencing photosynthesis, making it ideal for exam preparation.
BiologyExplore the intricate processes of photosynthesis, including light-dependent and light-independent reactions, pigment chromatography, and the role of chloroplasts. This summary covers key concepts such as photolysis, electron transport chains, and the Calvin cycle, providing a comprehensive understanding for AQA Biology students. Ideal for exam preparation and practical investigations.
BiologyExplore the process of chemiosmosis in photosynthesis, detailing the light-dependent reactions that occur in the thylakoid membranes. This study note covers the electron transport chain, ATP synthesis via ATP synthase, and the role of NADPH. Ideal for AQA Biology students preparing for exams.
BiologyExplore the intricate processes of photosynthesis, including the light-dependent reactions in thylakoids and the Calvin cycle in the stroma. This summary covers key concepts such as temperature effects, NADPH production, and limiting factors affecting photosynthesis rates. Ideal for AQA A-Level Biology students seeking a comprehensive understanding of photosynthesis.
BiologyApp Store
Google Play
The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
Android user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
I think it’s very much worth it and you’ll end up using it a lot once you get the hang of it and even after looking at others notes you can still ask your Artificial intelligence buddy the question and ask to simplify it if you still don’t get it!!! In the end I think it’s worth it 😊👍 ⚠️Also DID I MENTION ITS FREEE YOU DON’T HAVE TO PAY FOR ANYTHING AND STILL GET YOUR GRADES IN PERFECTLY❗️❗️⚠️
Thomas R
iOS user
Knowunity is the BEST app I’ve used in a minute. This is not an ai review or anything this is genuinely coming from a 7th grade student (I know 2011 im young) but dude this app is a 10/10 i have maintained a 3.8 gpa and have plenty of time for gaming. I love it and my mom is just happy I got good grades
Brad T
Android user
Not only did it help me find the answer but it also showed me alternative ways to solve it. I was horrible in math and science but now I have an a in both subjects. Thanks for the help🤍🤍
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
I found this app a couple years ago and it has only gotten better since then. I really love it because it can help with written questions and photo questions. Also, it can find study guides that other people have made as well as flashcard sets and practice tests. The free version is also amazing for students who might not be able to afford it. Would 100% recommend
Aubrey
iOS user
Best app if you're in Highschool or Junior high. I have been using this app for 2 school years and it's the best, it's good if you don't have anyone to help you with school work.😋🩷🎀
Marco B
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
Elisha
iOS user
This app is phenomenal down to the correct info and the various topics you can study! I greatly recommend it for people who struggle with procrastination and those who need homework help. It has been perfectly accurate for world 1 history as far as I’ve seen! Geometry too!
Paul T
iOS user
The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
Android user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
I think it’s very much worth it and you’ll end up using it a lot once you get the hang of it and even after looking at others notes you can still ask your Artificial intelligence buddy the question and ask to simplify it if you still don’t get it!!! In the end I think it’s worth it 😊👍 ⚠️Also DID I MENTION ITS FREEE YOU DON’T HAVE TO PAY FOR ANYTHING AND STILL GET YOUR GRADES IN PERFECTLY❗️❗️⚠️
Thomas R
iOS user
Knowunity is the BEST app I’ve used in a minute. This is not an ai review or anything this is genuinely coming from a 7th grade student (I know 2011 im young) but dude this app is a 10/10 i have maintained a 3.8 gpa and have plenty of time for gaming. I love it and my mom is just happy I got good grades
Brad T
Android user
Not only did it help me find the answer but it also showed me alternative ways to solve it. I was horrible in math and science but now I have an a in both subjects. Thanks for the help🤍🤍
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
I found this app a couple years ago and it has only gotten better since then. I really love it because it can help with written questions and photo questions. Also, it can find study guides that other people have made as well as flashcard sets and practice tests. The free version is also amazing for students who might not be able to afford it. Would 100% recommend
Aubrey
iOS user
Best app if you're in Highschool or Junior high. I have been using this app for 2 school years and it's the best, it's good if you don't have anyone to help you with school work.😋🩷🎀
Marco B
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
Elisha
iOS user
This app is phenomenal down to the correct info and the various topics you can study! I greatly recommend it for people who struggle with procrastination and those who need homework help. It has been perfectly accurate for world 1 history as far as I’ve seen! Geometry too!
Paul T
iOS user
Sociology