dark reaction


noun

the phase of photosynthesis, not requiring light, in which carbohydrates are synthesized from carbon dioxide.

British Dictionary definitions for dark reaction

dark reaction

noun

botany the stage of photosynthesis involving the reduction of carbon dioxide and the dissociation of water, using chemical energy stored in ATP: does not require the presence of light Compare light reaction

Scientific definitions for dark reaction

dark reaction

Any of the chemical reactions that take place during the second stage of photosynthesis and do not require light. During the dark reactions, energy released from ATP (created by the light reactions) drives the fixation of carbon from carbon dioxide in organic molecules. The Calvin cycle forms part of the dark reactions. As long as ATP is available, the dark reactions can occur in darkness or in light. Compare light reaction. See more at Calvin cycle photosynthesis.