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Multiple Choice
Which of the following processes is most directly driven by light energy during photosynthesis?
A
Synthesis of ATP from ADP and inorganic phosphate in the Calvin cycle
B
Transport of sugars through the phloem
C
Fixation of carbon dioxide into glucose
D
Splitting of water molecules to release electrons
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand that photosynthesis is a process where light energy is converted into chemical energy, primarily occurring in the chloroplasts of plant cells.
Recall that the light-dependent reactions of photosynthesis take place in the thylakoid membranes and are directly driven by light energy.
Recognize that during the light-dependent reactions, light energy is absorbed by chlorophyll molecules, exciting their electrons to a higher energy state.
Understand that this light energy is used to split water molecules (a process called photolysis), producing oxygen gas (O₂), protons (H⁺), and electrons. The chemical equation for this process is:
Conclude that the splitting of water molecules to release electrons is the process most directly driven by light energy during photosynthesis, as it provides the electrons needed for the electron transport chain in the light-dependent reactions.