Plastoquinone

Plastoquinone is a molecule found in plant cells that plays a key role in photosynthesis, specifically in the light-dependent reactions. It acts as an electron carrier, transferring electrons and protons within the thylakoid membranes of chloroplasts. When light energy excites the process, plastoquinone accepts electrons from one molecule, then transfers them to another, helping to generate the energy-rich molecules ATP and NADPH. These molecules are essential for converting carbon dioxide into sugars, fueling plant growth. In essence, plastoquinone is a vital component that helps plants capture and convert light energy into chemical energy.