Which of the following are the main outputs of the light-dependent reactions of photosynthesis?

• A. Glucose, NADPH, and H\(_2\)O
• B. NADH, FADH\(_2\), and O\(_2\)
• C. ATP, NADPH, and O\(_2\)
• D. Glucose, ATP, and CO\(_2\)

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Understand the light-dependent reactions of photosynthesis. These reactions occur in the thylakoid membranes of chloroplasts and require light energy to drive the production of energy-rich molecules.
2. Step 2: Identify the main inputs of the light-dependent reactions. These include light energy, water (H\(_2\)O), and ADP + inorganic phosphate (Pi). Additionally, NADP\(^+\) is used as an electron carrier.
3. Step 3: Recognize the main outputs of the light-dependent reactions. The energy from light is used to produce ATP (via photophosphorylation) and NADPH (via the reduction of NADP\(^+\)). Oxygen (O\(_2\)) is released as a byproduct when water is split during photolysis.
4. Step 4: Compare the given options to the outputs of the light-dependent reactions. The correct outputs are ATP, NADPH, and O\(_2\), which match the third option provided.
5. Step 5: Note that glucose and CO\(_2\) are not products of the light-dependent reactions. Glucose is synthesized during the Calvin cycle (light-independent reactions), and CO\(_2\) is an input for the Calvin cycle, not the light-dependent reactions.