Photosynthesis: Limited Yields, Unlimited Dreams

Abstract

The attainment of better yields and more useful harvests from biological energy conversion processes is a main goal of our studies of photosynthesis. A rational approach to this goal requires that we understand the limitations and the possibilities for improvement. This paper surveys the present fragmentary knowledge of the photosynthetic process, emphasizing energetic aspects, and describes some approaches to increase the harvest of sunlight—the only unlimited source of clean energy.