What inputs are required for the Calvin-Benson cycle?

The Calvin-Benson cycle, also known simply as the Calvin cycle, is a fundamental process in photosynthesis that takes place in the stroma of chloroplasts. This cycle relies on specific inputs to produce glucose, which plants use for energy and growth.

To begin, the inputs required for the Calvin cycle include ATP, NADPH + H+, and carbon dioxide. ATP, produced during the light-dependent reactions of photosynthesis, provides the necessary energy for the various biochemical reactions that occur in the cycle. NADPH + H+ serves as a reducing agent, donating high-energy electrons that are essential for the conversion of carbon dioxide into glucose. Carbon dioxide, which enters the plant from the atmosphere, is fixed into a usable form that ultimately leads to the synthesis of carbohydrates.

This combination allows the cycle to proceed effectively, facilitating the transformation of inorganic carbon into organic compounds. Understanding this relationship highlights the integral role of these inputs in sustaining the cycle and supporting the overall process of photosynthesis.