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In-Depth Higher Biology Photosynthesis Study Notes PDF Free Download

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Higher biology photosynthesis notes

1,223

Jul 11, 2025

2 pages

In-Depth Higher Biology Photosynthesis Study Notes PDF Free Download

user profile picture

Mia Penny

@miapenny_cllp

Photosynthesis: A Comprehensive Guide for Higher Biology Students

Photosynthesis is... Show more

PHOTOSYNTHESIS
The 3 possible fates of
light hitting a leaf.
"absorbed (for photosynthesis)
reflected
transmitted
400
The 3 main pigments fo

Photosynthesis: Light Reactions and Calvin Cycle

This page provides a detailed explanation of the two main stages of photosynthesis: photolysis thelightreactionsthe light reactions and the Calvin cycle. It offers a comprehensive overview of the photosynthesis process explained in higher biology.

Stage 1: Photolysis LightReactionsLight Reactions The light reactions occur in the chloroplast and involve the following steps:

  1. Light energy excites electrons in pigments.
  2. Electrons move through the electron transport chain ETCETC, releasing energy.
  3. Energy is used to generate ATP via ATP synthase.
  4. Energy is used for photolysis of water, producing hydrogen and oxygen.

Vocabulary: NADP - An enzyme that bonds with hydrogen to form NADPH, which is involved in the formation of G3P in stage 2.

Stage 2: The Calvin Cycle The Calvin cycle, also known as the light-independent reactions, involves the following steps:

  1. Carbon dioxide fixation by RuBisCO enzyme to form 3-phosphoglycerate 3PG3PG.
  2. 3PG is phosphorylated by ATP and combined with hydrogen ions from NADPH to form G3P.
  3. G3P is used to regenerate RuBP and synthesize glucose.

Highlight: The Calvin cycle is a light-independent process, contrary to the light reactions of photosynthesis.

The page also outlines the uses of glucose produced from photosynthesis:

  1. Used as a respiratory substrate
  2. Synthesized into starch
  3. Synthesized into cellulose
  4. Passed to other biosynthetic pathways

Example: Biosynthetic pathways can lead to the formation of various metabolites such as DNA, proteins, and fats.

This comprehensive guide provides students with a thorough understanding of the photosynthesis equation and the detailed photosynthesis process explained in higher biology class.

PHOTOSYNTHESIS
The 3 possible fates of
light hitting a leaf.
"absorbed (for photosynthesis)
reflected
transmitted
400
The 3 main pigments fo

Light Absorption and Pigments in Photosynthesis

This page delves into the intricate details of how leaves absorb light for photosynthesis and the pigments involved in this process. It explains the fate of light hitting a leaf and the various pigments responsible for light absorption.

When light hits a leaf, it can be absorbed for photosynthesis, reflected, or transmitted. The main pigments found in leaves are chlorophyll a, chlorophyll b, and carotenoids. These pigments have different absorption spectra, allowing plants to utilize a broader range of light wavelengths.

Vocabulary: Absorption spectrum - A graph showing the range of light wavelengths absorbed by different pigments.

The page also introduces the concept of thin-layer chromatography, which is used to separate and identify different pigments. The Rf value, which represents the ratio of the distance traveled by the pigment to the distance traveled by the solvent, is explained.

Definition: Rf value = distance traveled by pigment / distance traveled by solvent

An action spectrum is presented, showing how effective different wavelengths of light are for photosynthesis. This spectrum reveals that chlorophyll a absorbs red and violet light best, chlorophyll b absorbs blue light best, and carotenoids absorb blue-green light.

Highlight: The presence of multiple pigments allows plants to absorb a wider range of light wavelengths, enhancing their photosynthetic efficiency.



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What is the Knowunity AI companion?

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.

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Is Knowunity really free of charge?

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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

 

Biology

1,223

Jul 11, 2025

2 pages

In-Depth Higher Biology Photosynthesis Study Notes PDF Free Download

user profile picture

Mia Penny

@miapenny_cllp

Photosynthesis: A Comprehensive Guide for Higher Biology Students

Photosynthesis is a complex process that enables plants to convert light energy into chemical energy. This guide provides an in-depth higher biology photosynthesis studycovering the key aspects of this vital process,... Show more

PHOTOSYNTHESIS
The 3 possible fates of
light hitting a leaf.
"absorbed (for photosynthesis)
reflected
transmitted
400
The 3 main pigments fo

Sign up to see the contentIt's free!

Access to all documents

Improve your grades

Join milions of students

By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy

Photosynthesis: Light Reactions and Calvin Cycle

This page provides a detailed explanation of the two main stages of photosynthesis: photolysis thelightreactionsthe light reactions and the Calvin cycle. It offers a comprehensive overview of the photosynthesis process explained in higher biology.

Stage 1: Photolysis LightReactionsLight Reactions The light reactions occur in the chloroplast and involve the following steps:

  1. Light energy excites electrons in pigments.
  2. Electrons move through the electron transport chain ETCETC, releasing energy.
  3. Energy is used to generate ATP via ATP synthase.
  4. Energy is used for photolysis of water, producing hydrogen and oxygen.

Vocabulary: NADP - An enzyme that bonds with hydrogen to form NADPH, which is involved in the formation of G3P in stage 2.

Stage 2: The Calvin Cycle The Calvin cycle, also known as the light-independent reactions, involves the following steps:

  1. Carbon dioxide fixation by RuBisCO enzyme to form 3-phosphoglycerate 3PG3PG.
  2. 3PG is phosphorylated by ATP and combined with hydrogen ions from NADPH to form G3P.
  3. G3P is used to regenerate RuBP and synthesize glucose.

Highlight: The Calvin cycle is a light-independent process, contrary to the light reactions of photosynthesis.

The page also outlines the uses of glucose produced from photosynthesis:

  1. Used as a respiratory substrate
  2. Synthesized into starch
  3. Synthesized into cellulose
  4. Passed to other biosynthetic pathways

Example: Biosynthetic pathways can lead to the formation of various metabolites such as DNA, proteins, and fats.

This comprehensive guide provides students with a thorough understanding of the photosynthesis equation and the detailed photosynthesis process explained in higher biology class.

PHOTOSYNTHESIS
The 3 possible fates of
light hitting a leaf.
"absorbed (for photosynthesis)
reflected
transmitted
400
The 3 main pigments fo

Sign up to see the contentIt's free!

Access to all documents

Improve your grades

Join milions of students

By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy

Light Absorption and Pigments in Photosynthesis

This page delves into the intricate details of how leaves absorb light for photosynthesis and the pigments involved in this process. It explains the fate of light hitting a leaf and the various pigments responsible for light absorption.

When light hits a leaf, it can be absorbed for photosynthesis, reflected, or transmitted. The main pigments found in leaves are chlorophyll a, chlorophyll b, and carotenoids. These pigments have different absorption spectra, allowing plants to utilize a broader range of light wavelengths.

Vocabulary: Absorption spectrum - A graph showing the range of light wavelengths absorbed by different pigments.

The page also introduces the concept of thin-layer chromatography, which is used to separate and identify different pigments. The Rf value, which represents the ratio of the distance traveled by the pigment to the distance traveled by the solvent, is explained.

Definition: Rf value = distance traveled by pigment / distance traveled by solvent

An action spectrum is presented, showing how effective different wavelengths of light are for photosynthesis. This spectrum reveals that chlorophyll a absorbs red and violet light best, chlorophyll b absorbs blue light best, and carotenoids absorb blue-green light.

Highlight: The presence of multiple pigments allows plants to absorb a wider range of light wavelengths, enhancing their photosynthetic efficiency.

We thought you’d never ask...

What is the Knowunity AI companion?

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.

Where can I download the Knowunity app?

You can download the app in the Google Play Store and in the Apple App Store.

Is Knowunity really free of charge?

You have the choice, we offer a 100% secure payment via PayPal or an Amazon gift card. There is no limit to how much you can earn.

Can't find what you're looking for? Explore other subjects.

Students love us — and so will you.

4.9/5

App Store

4.8/5

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