Upon successful completion of this unit, you will be able to:

  • explain the role of photosynthesis and describe its matter and energy inputs and outputs;
  • describe how photosynthesis converts low-energy molecules into energy-rich carbohydrates;
  • explain the role of the light-independent phase of photosynthesis and describe how it is related to the light-dependent reactions;
  • explain how plants have adapted to deal with the challenges posed by photorespiration;
  • identify the differences in photosynthesis in CAM and C-4 plants; and
  • explain what the "carbon cycle" is and how it relates to the conservation of matter.