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Multiple Choice
Which molecule acts as the primary electron carrier during the light-dependent reactions of photosynthesis?
A
NADP$^+$
B
Coenzyme Q (ubiquinone)
C
Cytochrome c
D
FAD
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the context of the question: The light-dependent reactions of photosynthesis occur in the thylakoid membranes of chloroplasts, where light energy is converted into chemical energy. These reactions involve the transfer of electrons through a series of molecules in the electron transport chain.
Identify the role of electron carriers: Electron carriers are molecules that transport electrons during biochemical reactions. In photosynthesis, the primary electron carrier is responsible for accepting electrons at the end of the electron transport chain and facilitating their transfer to the next stage of photosynthesis.
Recall the specific electron carrier involved: During the light-dependent reactions, NADP$^+$ (nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate) acts as the primary electron carrier. It accepts electrons and a proton (H$^+$) to form NADPH, which is then used in the Calvin cycle for carbon fixation.
Differentiate NADP$^+$ from other molecules listed: Coenzyme Q (ubiquinone) and cytochrome c are electron carriers in cellular respiration, not photosynthesis. FAD (flavin adenine dinucleotide) is also involved in cellular respiration, specifically in the Krebs cycle and electron transport chain, but not in photosynthesis.
Conclude that NADP$^+$ is the correct answer: NADP$^+$ is uniquely involved in photosynthesis as the primary electron carrier during the light-dependent reactions, making it the correct choice for this question.