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Multiple Choice
Which two molecules are produced by the light reactions in photosynthesis and used to power the Calvin cycle?
A
ATP and NADPH
B
Carbon Dioxide and Water
C
ADP and NADP+
D
Glucose and Oxygen
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the context: Photosynthesis consists of two main stages - the light reactions and the Calvin cycle. The light reactions occur in the thylakoid membranes of chloroplasts and convert light energy into chemical energy.
Identify the products of the light reactions: During the light reactions, light energy is used to produce ATP (adenosine triphosphate) and NADPH (nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate). These molecules store energy and reducing power, respectively.
Recognize the role of ATP and NADPH: Both ATP and NADPH are essential for the Calvin cycle, which takes place in the stroma of chloroplasts. They provide the energy and electrons needed to convert carbon dioxide into glucose.
Differentiate between the options: Carbon dioxide and water are reactants in photosynthesis, not products of the light reactions. ADP and NADP+ are the oxidized forms of ATP and NADPH, respectively, and are not the products of the light reactions. Glucose and oxygen are products of the overall photosynthesis process, not specifically the light reactions.
Conclude with the correct answer: The two molecules produced by the light reactions and used to power the Calvin cycle are ATP and NADPH.