Answer :
Final answer:
During the light-dependent reactions of photosynthesis, water molecules are split to provide electrons and produce oxygen. This process is essential for converting light energy into chemical energy in the form of ATP and NADPH. The Calvin cycle, which includes carbon fixation, occurs separately and is not part of the light-dependent reactions.
Explanation:
Light-Dependent Reactions in Photosynthesis
The light-dependent reactions of photosynthesis occur in the thylakoid membranes of chloroplasts and are crucial for converting light energy into chemical energy. During these reactions, water molecules are split in a process known as photolysis, which releases oxygen as a byproduct. Specifically, the splitting of water provides electrons needed to replace those lost by chlorophyll molecules in the reaction centers of Photosystem II, and the overall reaction can be summarized:
12 H₂O + 12 NADP+ + 18 ADP + 18 P₁ + light and chlorophyll yields 6 O₂ + 12 NADPH + 18 ATP.
This process contrasts with other events such as carbon fixation, which occurs in the Calvin cycle, not during the light-dependent reactions. Therefore, the correct answer to the question is that during the light-dependent reactions, water molecules are split.
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