NADPH is generated through

Options

A. Anaerobic respiration
B. Cyclic photophorylation
C. Non-cyclic photophosphorylation
D. Glycolysis

Answer

**Step-by-Step Solution:**

1. **Understanding NADPH**: NADPH stands for Nicotinamide Adenine Dinucleotide Phosphate. It is a reduced electron carrier molecule that plays a crucial role in the energy transfer during photosynthesis.

2. **Photosynthesis Overview**: Photosynthesis in plants occurs in two main stages: the light reactions and the dark reactions (Calvin cycle). NADPH is primarily generated during the light reactions.

3. **Location of Light Reactions**: The light reactions take place in the thylakoids of the chloroplasts. These reactions require light energy to proceed.

4. **Types of Photophosphorylation**: Light reactions can be further divided into two types: cyclic photophosphorylation and non-cyclic photophosphorylation.
- **Cyclic Photophosphorylation**: Only ATP is produced in this process.
- **Non-Cyclic Photophosphorylation**: Both ATP and NADPH are produced.

5. **Mechanism of NADPH Formation**: In non-cyclic photophosphorylation, water molecules are split (lysis) to release electrons. These electrons are then transferred to NADP+ (Nicotinamide Adenine Dinucleotide Phosphate) to form NADPH.

6. **Role of Photosystems**: Photosystems I and II, which are complexes of proteins and pigments (like chlorophyll), capture light energy.
- Photosystem I contains a special pair of chlorophyll pigments known as P700.
- Photosystem II contains P680.

7. **Conclusion**: Therefore, NADPH is generated during the light reactions of photosynthesis, specifically through the non-cyclic photophosphorylation process.

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