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The Calvin Cycle: A Key Process in Photosynthesis

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The Calvin cycle is a vital part of photosynthesis, occurring in the stroma of chloroplasts, where it transforms atmospheric CO2 into glucose. This light-independent process relies on ATP and NADPH from the light-dependent reactions and goes through phases of carbon fixation, reduction, and RuBP regeneration. Understanding this cycle is crucial for grasping how plants produce organic compounds, supporting life on Earth.

Exploring the Calvin Cycle: The Light-Independent Phase of Photosynthesis

Photosynthesis is a critical process through which plants, algae, and certain bacteria convert light energy into chemical energy, sustaining life on Earth. This complex process is divided into two main phases: the light-dependent reactions, which capture sunlight to produce energy-rich compounds, and the light-independent reactions, commonly referred to as the Calvin cycle. The Calvin cycle, named after the scientist Melvin Calvin who elucidated its pathway, operates in the stroma of chloroplasts and does not directly use light. Instead, it uses the products of the light-dependent reactions, ATP and NADPH, to fix atmospheric carbon dioxide (CO2) into organic molecules, ultimately synthesizing glucose for the organism's use.
Close-up of a sunlit green leaf with a detailed vein network, soft glow on edges, and a blurred greenery background.

The Inputs and Outputs of the Calvin Cycle

The Calvin cycle is a biochemical pathway that uses carbon dioxide (CO2), nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate (NADPH), and adenosine triphosphate (ATP) as substrates to produce glucose. The general stoichiometric equation for the Calvin cycle is: 6 CO2 + 12 NADPH + 18 ATP + 12 H2O → C6H12O6 + 12 NADP+ + 18 ADP + 18 Pi + 6 H2O. This equation demonstrates the conversion of CO2 into glucose, with NADPH providing reducing power and ATP supplying the energy required for the synthesis. Water is both consumed and produced in the process, maintaining the balance of hydrogen in the cycle.

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00

Photosynthesis critical role

Converts light energy to chemical energy, sustains life on Earth.

01

Photosynthesis two main phases

Light-dependent reactions produce energy-rich compounds; Calvin cycle fixes CO2 into glucose.

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Light-independent reactions other name

Commonly known as the Calvin cycle.

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