[Campbell Biology P.240] Which statement accurately describes the cooperative relationship b... | Practice Question

Which statement accurately describes the cooperative relationship between the light reactions and the Calvin cycle in photosynthesis?

  • A: Light reactions produce sugar, and the Calvin cycle produces ATP and NADPH.
  • B: The Calvin cycle directly uses light energy, while light reactions use chemical energy.
  • C: Light reactions provide ATP and NADPH, which are used by the Calvin cycle to produce sugar.
  • D: Both light reactions and the Calvin cycle produce O2 as a byproduct.

Explanation

The light reactions convert solar energy into chemical energy in the form of ATP and NADPH. These molecules then supply the energy and reducing power needed for the Calvin cycle to incorporate CO2 and synthesize sugar. The Calvin cycle does not directly use light, and O2 is a byproduct only of the light reactions.