Module 3 - Capturing and Converting Energy

Welcome

Welcome to Module 3 of this course. 

Introduction

In this module, you will explore how cells capture and convert energy to perform life functions through various chemical reactions. A cell’s metabolism refers to the chemical reactions that take place within it. There are metabolic reactions that involve breaking down complex chemicals into simpler ones and processes that build complex molecules out of simpler ones. 

Another cellular function you will discover is glycolysis. Glycolysis is the first pathway used in the breakdown of glucose to extract energy for the cell. Because it is used by nearly all organisms on earth, it must have evolved early in the history of life.

A major process that occurs in plant cells is photosynthesis. You will explore the key organelles involved in photosynthesis as well as the importance of the light-dependent and light-independent reactions. 

  Course Navigation

 To navigate through this module, use the "next" and "previous" buttons located at the bottom of the page. 

Score a 100% on the CYK Quizzes. You may take these quizzes as many times as needed to score 100%. Turn in any mastery assignment, discussion post and/or module quiz before moving to the next module. The content in the following module will remain locked until all assignments are turned in for this module. 

Getting Started

1. Review the module introduction and outcomes to help you gain an understanding of the main topics and expectations.
2. Work through each lesson in this module and complete the Check Your Knowledge activity.  
3. Complete the Module Quiz once all lessons are finished in full.

Module 3 Objectives

After completing this Module, you will be able to:

• Recognize and describe the types of energy, metabolism, and metabolic pathways.
• Discuss how energy is extracted from the breakdown of a glucose molecule. 
• Define enzymes, and describe the effect of pH, temperature, and environment on enzyme activity.
• Explain what happens to pyruvate molecules produced at the end of glycolysis if oxygen is present.
• Understand anaerobic respiration and the regulation of cellular respiration.
• Identify the main structures, parts, and process of photosynthesis.
• Describe how light-dependent reactions convert solar energy into chemical energy in the form of NADPH and ATP, and the different kinds of pigments that exist. 
• Distinguish all the steps in the Calvin cycle and why both the Calvin and energy cycles are important.