What are the light-dependent reactions of photosynthesis?

In the light-dependent reactions, a photon of light hits an electron located in the thylakoid membrane of the chloroplast in photosystem II. This causes the electron to gain energy and jump to a higher energy state, generating an oxygen molecule at the same time which can be released into the atmosphere. This electron then travels down an electron-transport chain through a series of electron carries. As it does, energy is released. This energy can be used to pump H+ ions across the membrane through ATP synthase, which phosphorylates ADP at the same time, generating ATP. The electron then travels to photosystem I, where a similiar reaction occurs. However, this time NADP+ is reduced, creating NADPH instead of ATP.

SC
Answered by Sarah C. Biology tutor

5927 Views

See similar Biology A Level tutors

Related Biology A Level answers

All answers ▸

Maltose is hydrolysed by the enzyme maltase. Explain why maltase catalyses only this reaction.


Describe the course taken by a deoxygenated red blood cell returning to the heart from the circulation, naming any vessels or chambers along its course.


What types of infectious agents are there?


Describe the role of two named enzymes in the process of semi-conservative replication of DNA


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

© MyTutorWeb Ltd 2013–2025

Terms & Conditions|Privacy Policy
Cookie Preferences