Final answer:
Photosynthesis occurs in two main stages: the light-dependent reactions and the Calvin cycle. The light-dependent reactions convert light energy into ATP and NADPH, and release oxygen from the splitting of water. The Calvin cycle uses the ATP and NADPH to synthesize glucose from carbon dioxide. Hence, option (c) is correct.
Step-by-step explanation:
Photosynthesis occurs in two main stages: the light-dependent reactions and the Calvin cycle. The light-dependent reactions take place in the thylakoid membranes of chloroplasts where chlorophyll and other pigments absorb sunlight.
The absorbed light energy is converted into chemical energy in the form of ATP (adenosine triphosphate) and NADPH (nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate). These molecules act as energy carriers that transport the absorbed energy to the Calvin cycle. Moreover, water is oxidized during these reactions, leading to the release of oxygen as a byproduct.
The Calvin cycle, which occurs in the stroma of the chloroplasts, utilizes the ATP and NADPH produced in the light-dependent reactions to convert carbon dioxide into glucose. However, it's important to note that the formation of glucose directly through the Calvin Cycle is a multi-step process where the initial product is glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate (G3P), which can then be converted into glucose and other sugars.
The correct answer to the student's question would be: c) Stages: Light-dependent and Calvin cycle; Outcome: Formation of ATP and NADPH.