Last Minute Lecture

Photosynthesis and Chloroplast Function — Light Reactions, Carbon Fixation, and Energy Conversion Explained | Chapter 18 of Karp’s Cell and Molecular Biology Chapter 18 of Karp’s Cell and Molecular Biology: Concepts and Experiments explores one of the most essential biochemical processes on Earth: photosynthesis. This chapter examines the structural organization of chloroplasts, the molecular mechanisms of light absorption, the transfer of energy through photosystems, and the biochemical pathways that convert carbon dioxide into organic molecules. This expanded summary provides a clear, integrative explanation that complements the full video walkthrough. To reinforce your understanding of chloroplasts, photosystems, and the Calvin cycle, make sure to watch the video above. Subscribing to Last Minute Lecture will support your learning as you progress through the entire Karp textbook chapter-by-chapter. Chloroplast Structure: The Site of Photosynthesis Chloroplasts are speci...

Calvin-Benson Cycle, C₄ and CAM Photosynthesis, and Photorespiration Explained | Chapter 11 of Plant Physiology and Development Chapter 11 of Plant Physiology and Development dives into the carbon reactions of photosynthesis—processes that convert ATP and NADPH from the light reactions into stable, energy-rich carbohydrates. These reactions occur in the chloroplast stroma and are anchored by the Calvin-Benson cycle, a tightly regulated biochemical pathway essential for plant growth and productivity. This chapter also explores photorespiration, a major source of carbon loss, and the evolution of C₄ and CAM photosynthetic pathways that help plants thrive in hot, dry, or CO₂-limited environments. For a clear and accessible walkthrough of these concepts, watch the full Last Minute Lecture summary below. Watch the full chapter breakdown here: The Calvin-Benson Cycle: Three Core Phases The Calvin-Benson cycle fixes carbon dioxide into organic molecules using energy stored in ATP a...

Photosynthesis — Light Reactions, Calvin Cycle, and Energy Conversion Explained | Chapter 10 of Campbell Biology Welcome to Last Minute Lecture! This post breaks down photosynthesis—the process powering almost all life on Earth—as covered in Chapter 10 of Campbell Biology . Explore how plants, algae, and some prokaryotes convert sunlight into the energy and organic molecules that form the base of the food web. Watch the full video summary below and subscribe for more clear, chapter-by-chapter science content! Introduction: Why Photosynthesis Matters Photosynthesis is essential for all aerobic life. It provides the oxygen we breathe and generates organic molecules that support nearly every ecosystem. Chapter 10 explains both the stages and adaptations of this vital process. Photosynthesis and Energy Flow Autotrophs: Producers that make their own food using sunlight and inorganic molecules. Heterotrophs: Consumers that depend on autotrophs for food and oxygen. G...