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

• A. Stroma of chloroplasts
• B. Thylakoid membranes of chloroplasts
• C. Cytoplasm
• D. Mitochondrial matrix

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Recall the structure of chloroplasts, which includes the outer membrane, inner membrane, stroma, and thylakoid membranes.
2. Understand that the light-dependent reactions require pigments like chlorophyll to capture light energy.
3. Identify that chlorophyll and other pigments are embedded in the thylakoid membranes, making this the site where light energy is converted into chemical energy.
4. Recognize that the stroma is the site of the light-independent reactions (Calvin cycle), not the light-dependent reactions.
5. Conclude that the light-dependent reactions occur specifically in the thylakoid membranes of chloroplasts.