Learning Strategies in Biochemistry:
Photosynthesis

Revised 2008/05/22

Essential Review:

From general chemistry, review these concepts:

• Electronic energy levels and quantum numbers of atoms
• Molecular orbital theory
• Redox reactions

From organic chemistry, review these concepts,

• Molecular orbital theory of conjugated pi systems, such as butadiene and benzene.
• Spectroscopy, especially absorption of UV, visible, and infrared energy by organic molecules.

Essential Memory Work:

Using the Calvin cycle pathway chart in your text or THIS CHART as a starting point, memorize the following:

• Complete structures and names of all intermediates, including their stereochemistry if they are chiral.
• Names of all enzymes.
• Points of use of all cofactors (NADP, TPP, and so forth -- check the text concerning involvement of cofactors other than those shown on the chart).

Quiz (at beginning of first class on this subject)

On the blank paper provided, draw a chart of the Calvin cycle pathway, including all the details listed in Essential Memory Work, above. 15 minutes.

Pathway Information Provided on Exams

Memorizing pathways is primarily an aid to learning more about them. Questions on exams will be on a higher level than mere memory work. On exams that cover topics in metabolism, your instructor will provide pathways charts of any pathways you need in order to answer exam questions. So there is no need to come to exams prepared to regurgitate pathways. Instead, come prepared to use your experience with pathways -- gained by memory work, reading, and problem solving -- to answer questions, interpret data, and solve problems about them.

Biochemistry Resources