Thylakoid Membranes

Definition

These are internal membranes of a chloroplast where light-dependent reactions occur during photosynthesis. They contain pigments such as chlorophyll which absorb light energy.

Related terms

Photosystem II & I: These are protein complexes involved in photosynthesis that participate in the primary photochemistry of photosynthesis - they capture photons and transfer electrons. They're like specific spots on our sponge that do most of absorbing work.

Lumen: The interior space enclosed by thylakoid membrane; this is where protons accumulate during light-dependent reactions - think about it as absorbed water in our sponge analogy.

Cytochrome complex: A group of proteins that act as an electron carrier during photosynthesis, like a bucket brigade passing the electrons along.