Thylakoids
Definition
Thylakoids are flattened sac-like membranes arranged in stacks (grana) inside the chloroplasts. They contain chlorophyll and play a crucial role in capturing light energy and converting it into chemical energy during photosynthesis.
Analogy
Imagine thylakoids as the batteries in a flashlight. They capture and store energy (like batteries store electricity), which is then used to power the light (or, in this case, produce glucose).
Related terms
Photosystems: Clusters of pigments and proteins that capture light energy within thylakoid membranes.
Electron Transport Chain: A series of protein complexes embedded in the thylakoid membrane that transfer electrons during the light reactions of photosynthesis.
ATP Synthase: An enzyme located in the thylakoid membrane that uses the energy from flowing protons to synthesize ATP.
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