The photochemical phase of photosynthesis includes,(a) water splitting (b) light absorption © oxygen release (d) synthesis of NADPH (e) synthesis of starch

Options

A. Only (a) & (b)
B. (b),© & (e)
C. ©,(d) & (e)
D. All except (e)

Answer

To solve the question regarding the processes included in the photochemical phase of photosynthesis, we will analyze each option provided.

### Step-by-Step Solution:

1. **Understanding the Photochemical Phase**:
- The photochemical phase, also known as the light reaction or Hill's reaction, occurs in the presence of light and involves several key processes.

2. **Analyzing Each Option**:
- **(a) Water Splitting**:
- This process, known as photolysis, involves the breakdown of water molecules into oxygen, protons, and electrons. This is a crucial step in the photochemical phase.
- **Conclusion**: Included in the photochemical phase.

- **(b) Light Absorption**:
- Light is absorbed by chlorophyll and other pigments in the chloroplasts, which is essential for initiating the reactions of the photochemical phase.
- **Conclusion**: Included in the photochemical phase.

- **(c) Oxygen Release**:
- As a by-product of water splitting, oxygen is released into the atmosphere. This is a significant outcome of the photochemical phase.
- **Conclusion**: Included in the photochemical phase.

- **(d) Synthesis of NADPH**:
- During the light reactions, electrons are transferred through an electron transport chain, leading to the reduction of NADP+ to NADPH. This molecule is vital for the subsequent dark reactions (Calvin cycle).
- **Conclusion**: Included in the photochemical phase.

- **(e) Synthesis of Starch**:
- Starch synthesis occurs during the dark reactions (Calvin cycle) and not during the photochemical phase. Therefore, this process is not part of the light reactions.
- **Conclusion**: Not included in the photochemical phase.

3. **Final Answer**:
- The processes included in the photochemical phase of photosynthesis are (a) water splitting, (b) light absorption, (c) oxygen release, and (d) synthesis of NADPH. The only process that is not included is (e) synthesis of starch.