During the light-dependent reactions of photosynthesis, we would expect what compound(s) to be produced?
Responses
A glucoseglucose
B ATP and NADPHATP and NADPH
C water and NADPHwater and NADPH
D glucose and oxygen
C) water and NADPHwater and NADPH
To determine which compound(s) are produced during the light-dependent reactions of photosynthesis, we need to understand the process itself.
The light-dependent reactions take place in the thylakoid membrane of the chloroplasts and require light energy to occur. These reactions involve two main phases: the electron transport chain and chemiosmosis.
During the electron transport chain, light energy is used to excite electrons in chlorophyll molecules. These excited electrons are then passed along a series of carrier molecules, creating an electron transport chain. As the electrons move through the chain, some of their energy is harvested and used to generate ATP (adenosine triphosphate) through a process called photophosphorylation.
At the same time, another molecule called NADP+ (nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate) picks up electrons and hydrogen ions to form NADPH.
Therefore, the correct answer is B - ATP and NADPH. In the light-dependent reactions of photosynthesis, ATP and NADPH are produced to provide the energy and reducing power needed for the subsequent light-independent reactions (also known as the Calvin cycle) where glucose is synthesized.