Cyclic photophosphorylation is helpful in photosynthesis because it primarily generates ATP, which provides immediate energy for cellular processes.
Here's a breakdown of how it contributes:
- ATP Production: Cyclic photophosphorylation's main function is to convert ADP into ATP. As highlighted in the reference, in organisms like prokaryotes, cyclic photophosphorylation "accomplish[es] the conversion of ADP to ATP for immediate energy for the cells."
- Energy for Cellular Processes: The ATP produced serves as a readily available energy source for various cellular activities that require energy, such as carbon fixation.
In summary, cyclic photophosphorylation is crucial because it directly fuels the photosynthetic process with the energy (in the form of ATP) necessary to drive the synthesis of sugars.