Final answer:
Photosynthesis occurs in two stages: the light-dependent reactions and the Calvin cycle. The light-dependent reactions convert sunlight into chemical energy and release oxygen. In the Calvin cycle, carbon dioxide is captured and sugar molecules are formed. Some plants, like succulents and cacti, use the CAM pathway to conserve water during hot daytime temperatures.
Step-by-step explanation:
Photosynthesis takes place in two stages: the light-dependent reactions and the Calvin cycle. In the light-dependent reactions, chlorophyll absorbs energy from sunlight and converts it into chemical energy with the use of water. Oxygen is released as a byproduct.
In the Calvin cycle, chemical energy from the light-dependent reactions drives the capture of carbon dioxide and the assembly of sugar molecules. This two-stage process allows plants to convert sunlight into glucose, which is used as an energy source.
The CAM photosynthetic pathway is an alternative pathway used by plants, such as succulents and cacti, to conserve water during hot daytime temperatures. These plants close their stomata during the day to minimize water loss and open them at night to take up carbon dioxide.