During photosynthesis, where is water split and oxygen released?
Understand the Problem
The question is asking about the process of photosynthesis, specifically focusing on the role of water splitting and oxygen release. This occurs in the chloroplasts of plant cells during the light-dependent reactions of photosynthesis.
Answer
Thylakoid membranes of the chloroplasts.
Water is split and oxygen is released in the thylakoid membranes of the chloroplasts during the light reactions of photosynthesis.
Answer for screen readers
Water is split and oxygen is released in the thylakoid membranes of the chloroplasts during the light reactions of photosynthesis.
More Information
The light reactions of photosynthesis take place in the thylakoid membranes, where water is split (oxidized) to release oxygen, protons, and electrons. The electrons are then used to form ATP and NADPH, which are essential for the synthesis of glucose in the Calvin cycle.
Tips
A common mistake is thinking the entire process happens in the stroma of the chloroplast. The splitting of water specifically happens in the thylakoid membranes.
Sources
- Photosynthetic cells - nature.com
- Chloroplasts and Photosynthesis - Molecular Biology of the Cell - ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
- Photosynthesis - National Geographic Education - education.nationalgeographic.org
