Photosynthesis: Photolysis of Water Flashcards
when light hits the chlorophyll molecule, what happens to its electrons?
electrons are lost which shortens its number electrons
if a chlorophyll molecule is to continue absorbing light energy, what must happen to its electrons?
the electrons must be replaced
what do water molecules split using light energy provide?
the replacement electrons
what else does the photolysis of water produce?
produces protons (H⁺)
what is the equation for the photolysis of water?
2H₂O (+ light) → 4H⁺ + 4e⁻ + O₂
what do these protons (H⁺) go through to pass out of the thylakoid space?
ATP synthase channels
when the protons (H⁺) are passed out of the thylakoid space, what are they taken up by?
an electron carrier called NADP
what happens to the NADP when it takes up the protons (H⁺)?
it becomes reduced
what is reduced NADP (NADPH⁺)?
the main product of LDR
what does reduced NADP (NADPH⁺) enter the LIR with?
takes electrons from the chlorophyll molecule with it
why is reduced NADP (NADPH⁺) important?
it is a further source of chemical energy for the plant
what are the 2 uses of the oxygen by-prouct from the photolysis of water?
- respiration
2. diffuses out of the leaf as a waste product of photosynthesis
