Photosynthesis

AP Biology R-11 Essential Knowledge: Ch 10 Photosynthesis 10.1 Photosynthesis converts light energy to the chemical energy of food Autotrophs (producers) make their own organic molecules (food) from inorganic substances; heterotrophs (consumers) obtain their organic molecules by eating other organisms Plants are autotrophs that make their own organic molecules via photosynthesis Photosynthesis converts radiant energy (sunlight) into chemical energy (glucose) Photosynthesis occurs in the chloroplasts Leaves are the major site of photosynthesis in plants Chlorophyll is a green pigment found in the chloroplasts; it is the chlorophyll that actually absorbs the light energy Tiny pores on the underside of leaves, called stomata, are where CO2 enters and O2 exits