Question

What molecule splits water in photosystem ll?

Why does this molecule split water and what is the significance of this process?

Answer 1

During Photosynthesis, in photosystem II water molecule split into Oxygen and electron and proton (H+) . This reaction takes place in oxygen evolving complex that contain:-manganese and calcium. This complex located in thylakoid membrane.

Water molecule split because:- during initial processes chlorophyll pigment molecule excited by solar energy and donate their electron to another molecule. To replace this electron into chlorophyll pigment, water split into oxygen ,electron and proton.

Signification:- From the water molecule electron go to the chlorophyll and proton generate a proton gardient , result in ATP synthesis occurs. Another one, from this step oxygen is evolved, that is most important for respiration process.

Hope you understand.