Using a complex cast of metal-studded pigments, proteins, enzymes, and co-enzymes, photosynthetic organisms can convert the energy in light into the chemical energy for life. And now, thanks to a study published June 14 in Nature, we know that this organic chemical reaction is sensitive to the smallest quantity of light possible—a single photon.
  • realChem@beehaw.org
    2·
    2 years ago

    Neat! I used to work with a guy who studied the physics of photosynthesis (after he graduated and moved to industry). I remember him describing the darkroom and the light locks (like airlocks but for light) used to keep stray light from messing up the experiments. Sounds like extremely tedious research, but on an extremely interesting problem so I supposed it all washes out to be equal in the end.

    Here’s the link to the journal article for anyone else interested in getting eyes on it (it’s open access).