Flora Funga Podcast 112: REMIX: The MOST Important Thing on this Planet!
May 1, 2024
Dr. Ruhland delves into the importance of photosynthesis, covering light-dependent and light-independent reactions, ATP synthesis, and the Calvin cycle. The discussion highlights how plants play a crucial role in producing sugars and sustaining life on Earth.
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Photosynthesis Powers Life
- Photosynthesis converts light energy into chemical energy essential for life on Earth.
- ATP and NADPH produced in light-dependent reactions drive energy processes in plants.
Calvin Cycle and Rubisco's Role
- The Calvin cycle fixes atmospheric CO2 onto RUBP to form sugars in plants.
- Rubisco enzyme plays a crucial, though imperfect, role in carbon fixation.
Rubisco's Dual Function Challenges
- Rubisco is slow and can mistakenly use oxygen instead of CO2, causing wasteful photorespiration.
- Photorespiration consumes energy and reduces photosynthesis efficiency.