Which process in photosynthesis uses energy from the sun? (1 point)
O absorbing carbon dioxide
O splitting water into hydrogen and oxygen
O combining carbon dioxide and hydrogen
O releasing oxygen
The process in photosynthesis that uses energy from the sun is the process of converting water into oxygen and hydrogen through a process called photolysis. This process takes place in the thylakoid membrane of the chloroplasts, specifically in the light-dependent reactions. Here's how you can arrive at the answer:
1. First, understand that photosynthesis is the process by which plants, algae, and some bacteria convert sunlight into chemical energy to produce food in the form of glucose.
2. Next, identify the key components involved in photosynthesis — sunlight, carbon dioxide, and water.
3. Recall that photosynthesis takes place in two main stages: the light-dependent reactions and the light-independent reactions (also known as the Calvin cycle).
4. Focus on the light-dependent reactions, as this is where energy from the sun is utilized.
5. Remember that in the light-dependent reactions, sunlight is absorbed by chlorophyll molecules in the chloroplasts, located in the leaves of plants.
6. Now, recall that during the light-dependent reactions, water molecules are split into oxygen and hydrogen.
7. Finally, by considering the options provided, you can determine that the correct process in photosynthesis that uses energy from the sun is the splitting of water into oxygen and hydrogen. Therefore, the answer is "splitting water into hydrogen and oxygen."
It's important to note that while the other options mentioned (absorbing carbon dioxide, combining carbon dioxide and hydrogen, and releasing oxygen) are also involved in photosynthesis, they do not directly use energy from the sun.