Photosynthesis Light Reactions: Photon Absorption by PSII and PSI #2173106 (License: Personal Use)

This scientific illustration depicts the initial steps of the light-dependent reactions in oxygenic photosynthesis, where a photon enters the thylakoid membrane and is captured by the reaction center of Photosystem II (PSII), exciting an electron that travels through an electron transport chain to Photosystem I (PSI). The gradient formed drives ATP synthesis, while water splitting at PSII releases oxygen. The diagram highlights key protein complexes embedded in the green lipid bilayer, with color gradients indicating energy states.

Used in educational biology webpages, textbook supplements, or MOOCs explaining photosynthesis; targets students, teachers, and science enthusiasts seeking visual reinforcement of light reaction mechanisms.