[Campbell Biology P.256] Which of the following statements accurately distinguishes between ... | Practice Question

Which of the following statements accurately distinguishes between the Light Reactions and the Calvin Cycle in photosynthesis, based on the provided diagram and text?

  • A: Light reactions occur in the stroma, while the Calvin cycle occurs in the thylakoid membranes.
  • B: The primary product of light reactions is G3P, whereas the Calvin cycle primarily produces ATP and NADPH.
  • C: Light reactions split H₂O and release O₂, while the Calvin cycle uses CO₂ to synthesize sugar.
  • D: Both light reactions and the Calvin cycle directly convert light energy into chemical energy.

Explanation

The provided text and diagram clearly state that light reactions 'split H₂O and release O₂' and 'convert light energy to the chemical energy of ATP and NADPH'. The Calvin cycle, conversely, 'uses ATP and NADPH to convert CO₂ to the sugar G3P'. This accurately distinguishes their roles.