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

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

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

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. Identify the main inputs of the light-dependent reactions: Light energy, water (H\(_2\)O), and ADP + P\(_i\) (adenosine diphosphate and inorganic phosphate) are the primary inputs.
3. Recognize the direct outputs of the light-dependent reactions: The reactions produce ATP (adenosine triphosphate), NADPH (nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate), and oxygen (O\(_2\)) as byproducts of splitting water molecules.
4. Clarify why other options are incorrect: NADH and FADH\(_2\) are involved in cellular respiration, not photosynthesis. Pyruvate and water are products of glycolysis, and glucose and CO\(_2\) are associated with the Calvin cycle and respiration, respectively.
5. Conclude that the correct answer is ATP, NADPH, and O\(_2\), as these are the direct outputs of the light-dependent reactions of photosynthesis.