dark reaction

noun

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

dark reaction

noun

1. 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

dark reaction

1. 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.
2. Compare light reactionSee more at Calvin cycle

Example Sentences

The Calvin cycle is sometimes also called the dark reaction because none of its steps require light.

From Science News For Students

But no special apparatus is required to show the dark reaction.

From Project Gutenberg

The dark reaction known as the Charpentier effect occurs at the beginning of a period of illumination.

From Project Gutenberg

There is also a dark reaction of very short duration at the end of a period of illumination.

From Project Gutenberg