Which of the following correctly orders the steps of energy transformation during photosynthesis in plant cells?

• A. ATP and NADPH are produced → Light energy is absorbed by chlorophyll → Water is split to release electrons → Glucose is synthesized from CO₂
• B. Light energy is absorbed by chlorophyll → Water is split to release electrons → ATP and NADPH are produced → Glucose is synthesized from CO₂
• C. Water is split to release electrons → Glucose is synthesized from CO₂ → Light energy is absorbed by chlorophyll → ATP and NADPH are produced
• D. Glucose is synthesized from CO₂ → ATP and NADPH are produced → Water is split to release electrons → Light energy is absorbed by chlorophyll

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Begin by understanding the process of photosynthesis, which occurs in two main stages: the light-dependent reactions and the Calvin cycle (light-independent reactions).
2. Step 2: In the light-dependent reactions, light energy is absorbed by chlorophyll molecules in the thylakoid membranes of chloroplasts. This initiates the process of energy transformation.
3. Step 3: The absorbed light energy is used to split water molecules (H₂O) in a process called photolysis, releasing electrons, protons, and oxygen gas (O₂). This step is crucial for providing electrons to the electron transport chain.
4. Step 4: The electrons move through the electron transport chain, leading to the production of ATP (via chemiosmosis) and NADPH. These molecules store energy and reducing power for the next stage of photosynthesis.
5. Step 5: In the Calvin cycle, ATP and NADPH are used to convert carbon dioxide (CO₂) into glucose through a series of enzymatic reactions. This completes the energy transformation process during photosynthesis.