Chloroplasts are membrane bound organelles that are found in plant cells and green algae. They serve as the site of photosynthesis where the light energy is converted into chemical energy. The chloroplast houses the green pigment chlorophyll that absorbs sunlight for the production of organic compounds.
The chloroplasts have internally bound membranes called thylakoids that are arranged in stacks called grana. The thylakoids consist of the photosystems that serve as the site for absorption of sunlight. The surrounding space in the stacked grana is called stroma. The stroma contains dissolved enzymes, chloroplast genome and starch granules.
Let us look at the major differences between thylakoid and stroma in the table below.
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Thylakoid |
Stroma |
|
Description |
|
|
The membrane bound compartments in the chloroplast are referred to as thylakoids. |
The surrounding matrix/cytoplasm in the chloroplast is called stroma. |
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Function |
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They are the site for light dependent reactions. |
The light independent reaction of the photosynthesis takes place in the stroma. |
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Also Read:
- Difference Between Mitochondria and Chloroplast
- Explain Why Chloroplasts Are Found Only In Plants?
- What is Chromoplast? How does it differ from Chloroplast?
Frequently Asked Questions on Difference between Thylakoid and Stroma
What is the difference between stroma and grana?
Stroma is the matrix present between the membranes of chloroplasts, whereas grana is disc-like stacking of the thylakoid membranes in the chloroplast.
What is the difference between stroma and stoma?
Stroma is the colourless matrix present in the membranes of the chloroplast, whereas stoma is a pore-like structure that helps in gaseous exchange.
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