Photosynthesis
STEP ONE (Light Dependent Reaction)
Light-Dependent Reactions (Occur in the Thylakoid Membranes)
Input: Light energy, Water (H₂O)
Process:
Light is absorbed by chlorophyll in Photosystem II.
Water molecules are split (Photolysis) to release Oxygen (O₂), protons (H⁺), and electrons.
Electrons travel down the Electron Transport Chain (ETC), providing energy to pump protons into the thylakoid lumen, creating a proton gradient.
The proton gradient drives ATP synthesis through ATP synthase (Chemiosmosis).
Electrons reach Photosystem I, are re-energized by light, and reduce NADP⁺ to NADPH.
Output: Oxygen (O₂), ATP, NADPH
STEP TWO (Light Independent Reaction)
Light-Dependent Reactions (Occur in the Thylakoid Membranes)
Input: Light energy, Water (H₂O)
Process:
Light is absorbed by chlorophyll in Photosystem II.
Water molecules are split (Photolysis) to release Oxygen (O₂), protons (H⁺), and electrons.
Electrons travel down the Electron Transport Chain (ETC), providing energy to pump protons into the thylakoid lumen, creating a proton gradient.
The proton gradient drives ATP synthesis through ATP synthase (Chemiosmosis).
Electrons reach Photosystem I, are re-energized by light, and reduce NADP⁺ to NADPH.
Output: Oxygen (O₂), ATP, NADPH