Photosynthesis is the process by which plants, algae, and some bacteria convert light energy into chemical energy. This process is essential for the survival of these organisms, as it allows them to produce the glucose and oxygen that they need to survive. Photosynthesis is typically divided into two stages: the light-dependent reactions and the light-independent reactions. The light-dependent reactions require the presence of light in order to occur, while the light-independent reactions do not.

One of the main reasons that darkness affects the light-independent reactions of photosynthesis is that these reactions require the presence of ATP and NADPH, which are produced during the light-dependent reactions. The light-dependent reactions involve the absorption of light by pigments such as chlorophyll, which is then used to produce ATP and NADPH. These two molecules are then used in the light-independent reactions to produce glucose and oxygen.

Without the presence of light, the light-dependent reactions cannot occur, and the production of ATP and NADPH is halted. This means that the light-independent reactions cannot occur, as they require the presence of ATP and NADPH to function. As a result, the light-independent reactions are strongly influenced by the presence or absence of light.

Another reason that darkness affects the light-independent reactions of photosynthesis is that these reactions rely on the presence of certain enzymes that are activated by light. These enzymes are responsible for catalyzing the chemical reactions that occur during the light-independent reactions, and they are activated by light in order to function properly. Without the presence of light, these enzymes may not be activated, and the light-independent reactions may be slowed or stopped altogether.

In summary, darkness affects the light-independent reactions of photosynthesis because these reactions rely on the presence of ATP and NADPH, which are produced during the light-dependent reactions. These reactions also rely on the presence of certain enzymes that are activated by light, and without the presence of light, these enzymes may not function properly. As a result, the light-independent reactions are strongly influenced by the presence or absence of light.