Answer :
Final answer:
During the light-dependent reactions of photosynthesis, water molecules are split to replenish electrons lost by chlorophyll. This process releases oxygen and hydrogen ions, which play a vital role in further energy transformation. Therefore, the correct process taking place is the splitting of water molecules.
Explanation:
Light-Dependent Reactions in Photosynthesis
The light-dependent reactions of photosynthesis are crucial for converting light energy into chemical energy, primarily through two interlinked processes occurring in the thylakoid membranes of chloroplasts.
One of the fundamental processes that occur during these reactions is the splitting of water molecules, known as photolysis. When light is absorbed by chlorophyll, it energizes electrons, allowing them to be transferred to an electron carrier. To replace these lost electrons, water molecules (H₂O) are split into oxygen (O₂), hydrogen ions (H+), and electrons.
This process can be summarized as:
- Light energy excites electrons in the chlorophyll, causing them to leave the molecule.
- To replace the lost electrons, water is split.
- This reaction produces oxygen as a byproduct, which is released into the atmosphere.
- Hydrogen ions contribute to the formation of ATP and NADPH in subsequent steps of photosynthesis.
Thus, the correct answer to the question is: Water molecules are split.
Learn more about light-dependent reactions here:
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