Exploring quantum effects in photosynthesis

Thumbnail Image

Files

URL

Journal Title

Journal ISSN

Volume Title

Perustieteiden korkeakoulu | Bachelor's thesis
Electronic archive copy is available locally at the Harald Herlin Learning Centre. The staff of Aalto University has access to the electronic bachelor's theses by logging into Aaltodoc with their personal Aalto user ID. Read more about the availability of the bachelor's theses.
Unless otherwise stated, all rights belong to the author. You may download, display and print this publication for Your own personal use. Commercial use is prohibited.

Authors

Date

2024-06-20

Department

Major/Subject

Quantum Technology

Mcode

SCI3103

Degree programme

Aalto Bachelor’s Programme in Science and Technology

Language

en

Pages

39

Series

Abstract

The quantum effects in photosynthesis, studied in this thesis, allowed we to find a link between quantum mechanics and biological processes. Based on the analysis of existing studies on quantum coherence, quantum tunneling, and the impact of environmental factors on these phenomena, we can affirm the importance of quantum effects to ensure the high efficiency of photosynthesis. Using modern experimental methods and theoretical calculations, I have shown the comprehensive impact of quantum mechanics on energy transfer, with the use of which the system acts with almost perfect efficiency. It is quantum coherence and tunneling that provide more logical routes of motion of energy, and the environmental conditions ensure the presence of quantum effects. In this study, we not only get a better understanding of the quantum-biological framework but also acquires the opportunity to start further research aimed at creating new bioenergy technologies based on a perfected photosynthesis model. Thus, the enlargement of biological research with quantum mechanics allows we to move closer to the understanding of the fundamentals of life, which can change the approach to the use of sustainable energy resources.

Description

Supervisor

Tittonen, Ilkka

Thesis advisor

Ilkka, Tittonen

Keywords

quantum coherence in photosynthesis, quantum tunneling in electron transfer, environmental decoherence in quantum systems

Other note

Citation

Permanent link to this item

https://urn.fi/URN:NBN:fi:aalto-202407025037

Collections

[kand] Perustieteiden korkeakoulu / SCI