During which phase does light-dependent reactions take place?

The light-dependent reactions of photosynthesis occur in the thylakoid membranes of the chloroplasts. During this phase, chlorophyll absorbs light energy, which is then converted into chemical energy in the form of ATP and NADPH. The absorbed light also facilitates the splitting of water molecules, releasing oxygen as a byproduct.

The thylakoid membranes are specifically designed to capture light and contain the necessary components, such as photosystems and electron transport chains, to carry out these reactions effectively. This structural organization allows the plant cells to maximize energy capture and is essential for the overall process of photosynthesis.