During the light-independent reaction of photosynthesis, CO2 is converted into organic substances, describe how.

The light-independent reaction (Calvin cycle) takes place in the absence of light. Firstly, CO2 combines with ribulose biphosphate (RuBP) to produce two molecules of glycerate-3-phosphate (GP). GP is reduced using reduced NADP and ATP from the light-dependent reaction to produce triose phosphate (TP). TP is converted into useful organic substances (eg. glucose) or into RuBP to renew the cycle.

TT
Answered by Tom T. Biology tutor

31588 Views

See similar Biology A Level tutors

Related Biology A Level answers

All answers ▸

Describe the structure of proteins


Describe action potential and how it allows for signals to be transmitted along neurons.


Describe the relationship between Arbuscular Myccorhyzal fungi and plants


How are grana adapted to their function in photosynthesis? [2 marks]


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

MyTutor is part of the IXL family of brands:

© 2026 by IXL Learning