Photosynthesis: A Comprehensive Guide for Higher Biology Students
Photosynthesis is... Show more
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Mia Penny
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Photosynthesis: A Comprehensive Guide for Higher Biology Students
Photosynthesis is... Show more

Photosynthesis: Light Reactions and Calvin Cycle
This page provides a detailed explanation of the two main stages of photosynthesis: photolysis (the light reactions) and the Calvin cycle. It offers a comprehensive overview of the photosynthesis process explained in higher biology.
Stage 1: Photolysis (Light Reactions) The light reactions occur in the chloroplast and involve the following steps:
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:
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:
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.

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.
Our AI Companion is a student-focused AI tool that offers more than just answers. Built on millions of Knowunity resources, it provides relevant information, personalised study plans, quizzes, and content directly in the chat, adapting to your individual learning journey.
You can download the app from Google Play Store and Apple App Store.
That's right! Enjoy free access to study content, connect with fellow students, and get instant help – all at your fingertips.
App 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
Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good
Thomas R
iOS user
Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.
Basil
Android user
This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.
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
very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.
Rohan U
Android user
I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.
Xander S
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 apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now
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
Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good
Thomas R
iOS user
Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.
Basil
Android user
This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.
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
very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.
Rohan U
Android user
I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.
Xander S
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 apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now
Paul T
iOS user
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

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Photosynthesis: Light Reactions and Calvin Cycle
This page provides a detailed explanation of the two main stages of photosynthesis: photolysis (the light reactions) and the Calvin cycle. It offers a comprehensive overview of the photosynthesis process explained in higher biology.
Stage 1: Photolysis (Light Reactions) The light reactions occur in the chloroplast and involve the following steps:
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:
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:
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.

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.
Our AI Companion is a student-focused AI tool that offers more than just answers. Built on millions of Knowunity resources, it provides relevant information, personalised study plans, quizzes, and content directly in the chat, adapting to your individual learning journey.
You can download the app from Google Play Store and Apple App Store.
That's right! Enjoy free access to study content, connect with fellow students, and get instant help – all at your fingertips.
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Transform this note into: ✓ 50+ Practice Questions ✓ Interactive Flashcards ✓ Full Mock Exam ✓ Essay Outlines
Explore 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.
Explore 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.
Explore 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.
Explore 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.
Explore 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.
Explore the structure and function of chloroplasts and chlorophyll in photosynthesis. Understand the light-dependent and light-independent reactions, including the Calvin cycle and the role of NADPH. This summary provides essential insights into how plants convert light energy into chemical energy.
App 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
Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good
Thomas R
iOS user
Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.
Basil
Android user
This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.
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
very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.
Rohan U
Android user
I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.
Xander S
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 apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now
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
Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good
Thomas R
iOS user
Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.
Basil
Android user
This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.
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
very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.
Rohan U
Android user
I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.
Xander S
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 apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now
Paul T
iOS user