Photon

Definition

A photon is a quantum of electromagnetic energy with both particle and wave properties. It is the basic unit that makes up all light.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Photons are absorbed by chlorophyll molecules in the thylakoid membrane during the light-dependent reactions.
2. Each photon has a specific amount of energy, which is inversely proportional to its wavelength.
3. Photons excite electrons in chlorophyll, initiating the process of converting solar energy into chemical energy.
4. The energy from photons is used to generate ATP and NADPH, essential for the subsequent light-independent reactions.
5. Different pigments absorb different wavelengths of photons, optimizing the efficiency of photosynthesis.

Review Questions

• What role do photons play in the light-dependent reactions of photosynthesis?
• How does the energy of a photon relate to its wavelength?
• Why is it important for chlorophyll to absorb photons?

Related terms

Chlorophyll: The pigment in plants that absorbs light energy used to drive photosynthesis.

Thylakoid Membrane: The site within chloroplasts where the light-dependent reactions take place.

ATP: Adenosine triphosphate, an energy carrier molecule produced during the light-dependent reactions.