Definition, Meaning & Synonyms
thylakoid
noun
/ˈθaɪləˌkɔɪd/
Definition
A thylakoid is a membrane-bound compartment inside chloroplasts and cyanobacteria that is the site of the light-dependent reactions of photosynthesis.
Examples
- The thylakoid membranes contain chlorophyll, which captures light energy.
- Photosynthesis occurs in the thylakoids of plant cells.
- In cyanobacteria, thylakoids are present in the cytoplasm as well.
Meaning
Thylakoids are essential structures in plants and algae, where the process of converting light energy into chemical energy occurs.
Synonyms
- None (specific scientific term)
