Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Verified for the 2026 exam
Verified for the 2026 exam•Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Definition
Photosystem II is the first protein complex in the light-dependent reactions of oxygenic photosynthesis. It captures photons and uses the energy to extract electrons from water molecules.
Related terms
Photon: A photon is a particle representing a quantum of light or other electromagnetic radiation. It's like a tiny packet of sunlight.
These are reactions in photosynthesis that convert light energy into chemical energy (ATP and NADPH). They're like charging your phone with solar power - converting sunlight into usable energy.
Oxygenic Photosynthesis: This is photosynthesis that produces oxygen through the splitting of water. It's like an eco-friendly factory that takes in water and sunlight, and outputs oxygen and sugar!