Here's how it works:
* Photosystem II (PSII), a complex of proteins and pigments within the chloroplasts, absorbs light energy.
* This energy is used to split water molecules (photolysis).
* The splitting of water produces:
* Oxygen (O₂) gas, which is released as a byproduct.
* Electrons (e-), which are passed along an electron transport chain.
* Hydrogen ions (H+), which contribute to the formation of ATP.
So, while the light reaction doesn't directly produce oxygen, it uses water as a source of electrons and releases oxygen as a waste product.
