Final answer:
H₂O undergoes oxidation during photosynthesis, resulting in the production of electrons, protons, and O₂. This process is essential for the formation of ATP and NADPH, which are crucial for the synthesis of glucose.
Step-by-step explanation:
In photosynthesis, H₂O undergoes a process known as oxidation. This is an essential step in the light-dependent reactions of photosynthesis where water molecules are split to produce electrons, protons, and molecular oxygen (O₂). During oxidation:
- Hydrogen is removed from H₂O, producing electrons (e⁻) and protons (H+).
- Oxygen atoms from two water molecules come together to form molecular oxygen (O₂).
This process is a crucial component of the photosynthetic electron transport chain, allowing the production of ATP and NADPH, which are used in the Calvin cycle to synthesize glucose from carbon dioxide.