Significance of the electron trap parameters of glow curves of photosynthetic membranes

Abstract

Several methods are available to determine the electron trap parameters such as activation energy E, preexponential frequency factors, and the lifetime T of the electrons in the trap states in photosynthesis. These parameters are also related by the Arrhenius expression which helps in calculating the E .values without any assumptions regarding the particular order of kinetics applicable or the values of preexponential factors. Subsequent calculation then yields the values for s and T in a straightforward manner. However, application of these methods (as well as the Arrhenius expression) to some of the experimental data has recently yielded such values that give rise to some questions regarding the meaning attributable to these parameters. The significance of these findings are discussed in view of the correlation of thermoluminescence and delayed light emission studies in photosynthetic membranes.