Author
Home > Science > What is the Difference Between Grana and Stroma?

Guilherme Mazui

•3 minutes to read

What is the Difference Between Grana and Stroma?

🆚 Go to Comparative Table 🆚

The difference between grana and stroma lies in their structures and functions within the chloroplast of plant cells. Here are the key differences:

  • Grana: These are stacks of thylakoids embedded in the stroma of a chloroplast. Grana are also called granum lamellae and enlose a space known as a locus. They provide a large surface area for the attachment of chlorophylls and other photosynthetic pigments. The site of light reaction during photosynthesis, where chlorophyll is stored, is located in the grana.
  • Stroma: This is the aqueous fluid filling the chloroplast cavity and serves as the homogeneous framework where grana are inserted. The stroma is the site of light-independent reactions, also known as dark reactions, during photosynthesis. It is a fluid-filled matrix inside the inner membrane of the chloroplast.

In summary, grana are stacks of thylakoids in the chloroplast where the light reactions take place, while stroma is the fluid-filled matrix in the chloroplast where the light-independent reactions occur.

On this page
  • What is the Difference Between Grana and Stroma?
  • Comparative Table: Grana vs Stroma

    • Comparative Table: Grana vs Stroma

    Here is a table comparing the differences between grana and stroma:

    Feature Grana Stroma
    Definition Grana are stacks of thylakoid membranes embedded in the stroma of a chloroplast. Stroma is the fluid-filled matrix inside the inner membrane of the chloroplast.
    Structure Each granum consists of 5-25 disc-shaped thylakoids stacked one on the other. Thylakoids are connected with other thylakoids via a thin grana lamellae.
    Function Grana are the site of light-dependent reactions during photosynthesis. The light-independent stage of photosynthesis (reduction of carbon dioxide) takes place in the stroma.
    Composition Grana contain pigments and proteins necessary for photosynthesis. Stroma contains DNA, ribosomes, and other necessary components for the chloroplast.

    In summary, grana are stacks of thylakoid membranes where the light-dependent reactions of photosynthesis occur, while the stroma is the fluid-filled matrix inside the chloroplast where the light-independent reactions take place.

    Read more:

    Guilherme Mazui

    Guilherme Mazui is graduated in journalism from the Federal University of Minas Gerais (UFMG) and a master's degree in Communication from the University of São Paulo (USP). In addition, he has experience in advertising writing and has worked as a content editor in several companies.