Where do the light-dependent reactions of photosynthesis occur in a plant cell?

• A. In the cytoplasm
• B. In the mitochondria
• C. In the stroma of the chloroplast
• D. In the thylakoid membranes of the chloroplast

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Begin by understanding the process of photosynthesis, which occurs in two main stages: light-dependent reactions and light-independent reactions (Calvin cycle).
2. Step 2: Recall that light-dependent reactions require sunlight and are responsible for converting light energy into chemical energy in the form of ATP and NADPH.
3. Step 3: Identify the location of light-dependent reactions. These reactions occur in the thylakoid membranes of the chloroplast, which are specialized structures within plant cells designed to capture light energy.
4. Step 4: Understand the role of the thylakoid membranes. They contain pigments like chlorophyll that absorb light and are organized into photosystems, which are essential for the light-dependent reactions.
5. Step 5: Eliminate incorrect options by comparing their functions and locations. The cytoplasm and mitochondria are not involved in photosynthesis, and the stroma is the site of the Calvin cycle, not the light-dependent reactions.