Abstract
Photosynthesis, the only topic of photobiology which is involved in the photochemical conversion and storage of solar energy, is examined from several viewpoints. The energetics of basic photosynthesis reaction are given along with a brief explanation of the way in which the plant handles different parts of the reaction. The mechanism of the primary photochemical reaction is considered in some detail where it is shown that this step behaves like a solar cell. Thermodynamic and kinetic limits on the conversion of light to work are summarized and then these limits are used to show why photosynthesis had to develop two photosystems operating in series. Next the efficiency of photosynthesis is examined under several conditions and various requisite losses are identified. Finally, the subject of the utilization of biomass as a renewable energy. source is discussed and two processes, the hydrolysis of cellulose and anaerobic digestion are considered in detail along with a projection as to possible modifications to photosynthesis to produce useful fuels.
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