When plants get energy from photosynthesis, it is done in 2 stages.
In the first stage of photosynthesis, sunlight is needed and in the second stage, sunlight is not needed.
Stage 1: light energy from the Sun is used to separate water molecules into hydrogen and oxygen. The oxygen that isn’t needed is released from the plant's leaves through tiny pores called stomata.
During this first stage of photosynthesis, two chemicals are created: ATP and NADPH.
Stage 2: is called the Calvin cycle. It doesn’t need light. In this stage, carbon dioxide and energy from ATP and NADPH are used to make a type of sugar called glucose. Glucose gives the plant energy to make flowers, seeds and fruits, or vegetables.
What does photosynthesis mean?
Now that we understand how photosynthesis works, we can understand the name. Photo means light and synthesis means putting together. Photosynthesis means using light to put things together!
Carbon Dioxide + Water + Light Energy = Glucose + Oxygen
Where does photosynthesis take place?
To capture light from the Sun, plants have a green substance called chlorophyll. Chlorophyll is found inside the cells of plants in little things called chloroplasts.
Photosynthesis mainly takes place inside the leaves of plants where there is lots of chlorophyll.
Did you know?
Scientists have discovered a sea slug that uses photosynthesis to create energy. When the sea slug eats algae, it doesn’t fully digest it. Instead, the algae remain in the slug’s system and continue to provide food for the slug through photosynthesis.
