Light-dependent reactions

Light-dependent reactions are the first stage of photosynthesis, where plants convert sunlight into energy. These reactions occur in the chloroplasts and require light to work. Sunlight energizes chlorophyll pigments, exciting electrons that travel through a series of proteins called the electron transport chain. This process produces energy carriers called ATP and NADPH, which store energy for the next stage of photosynthesis. Additionally, water molecules are split during this process, releasing oxygen as a byproduct. Overall, these reactions capture sunlight and transform it into chemical energy necessary for plant growth and metabolic activities.