PhotosynthesisHESI A2 cheat sheet

Light into sugar

8 key facts 5 practice questions Reviewed Oct 2026

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The Equation

6CO₂ + 6H₂O + light → C₆H₁₂O₆ + 6O₂
Takes place in the chloroplast

Light Reactions

In the thylakoid membranes
Light splits water → oxygen released
Produces ATP and NADPH

Calvin Cycle

In the stroma, light-independent
Fixes CO₂ into glucose using the ATP and NADPH

Vs Respiration

Photosynthesis stores energy; respiration releases it — they are opposites

Key takeaway

Light into sugar

Before you read

Test yourself first: 5 questions

Question 1 of 5

Which gas do plants take in during photosynthesis?

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