VCAC: Cellular Processes: Photosynthesis (Light): Advanced Look: ATP Synthase

ATP synthase is considered a part of the photosynthetic electron transport chain, but it is not involved in the transport of electrons. ATP synthase uses the proton gradient created by the photosynthetic ETC to synthesize ATP. Clicking on each of the thumbnail images will bring up a larger, labeled version of the described scene.

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	ATP synthase accepts one proton from the lumen space and releases a different proton into the stroma space to create the energy it needs to synthesize ATP. It must do this three times to synthesize one ATP. This transfer is powered by the proton gradient created by the other complexes in the photosynthetic ETC.
	ATP synthase creates ATP from the substrates ADP and Pi (inorganic phosphate).
	ATP, NADPH, and O2 (molecular oxygen) are the vital final products of photosynthesis.

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