University of Central Florida (UCF) BOT3015 Principles of Plant Science Practice Exam 1

The primary output of the light-dependent reactions of photosynthesis includes oxygen, ATP, and NADPH. These reactions occur in the thylakoid membranes of chloroplasts, where sunlight is absorbed by chlorophyll and other pigments. This energy is used to split water molecules, leading to the release of oxygen as a byproduct. The energy captured is also utilized to convert ADP and inorganic phosphate into ATP through photophosphorylation, as well as to reduce NADP+ to NADPH, which acts as a carrier of high-energy electrons. These components are essential for the subsequent light-independent reactions, or the Calvin cycle, where carbon dioxide is fixed to form glucose. Therefore, the light-dependent reactions play a crucial role in providing the necessary energy and reducing power for the synthesis of carbohydrates.