CALVIN CYCLE Meaning and
Definition
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The Calvin cycle, also known as the Calvin-Benson cycle or the C3 cycle, is a series of biochemical reactions that occur in the chloroplasts of plants during photosynthesis. Named after the American scientist Melvin Calvin, who elucidated its pathway in the 1950s, this cycle is a crucial part of the light-independent reactions, also called the dark reactions, of photosynthesis.
The Calvin cycle is responsible for converting carbon dioxide (CO2) from the atmosphere into glucose, a high-energy sugar molecule. It takes place in the stroma, which is the fluid-filled region of the chloroplast. The cycle involves a series of chemical reactions that use energy stored in ATP (adenosine triphosphate) and NADPH (nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate) molecules, which were produced during the light-dependent reactions.
During the Calvin cycle, six molecules of CO2 are combined with six molecules of a five-carbon compound called ribulose bisphosphate (RuBP). Through a series of enzymatic reactions, these compounds are converted into twelve molecules of a three-carbon sugar called 3-phosphoglycerate (3-PGA). ATP and NADPH provide energy and electrons to drive these reactions. Some of the 3-PGA molecules are then converted into glucose or other sugars, while others are recycled to regenerate the starting compound, RuBP.
Overall, the Calvin cycle plays a vital role in converting atmospheric carbon dioxide into organic compounds essential for plant growth and sustenance. It is an integral part of photosynthesis and the global carbon cycle, ultimately contributing to the production of food and oxygen on our planet.
Common Misspellings for CALVIN CYCLE
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Etymology of CALVIN CYCLE
The term "Calvin cycle" is derived from the name of the American biochemist, Melvin Calvin, who played a crucial role in elucidating the process of photosynthesis, specifically the fixation of carbon dioxide in plants. The Calvin cycle, also known as the Calvin-Benson cycle or the C3 cycle, was named after him to honor his contributions to the field of photosynthesis research.
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