Question

Photolysis of water occurs in the presence of which element?

• A. Magnesium
• B. Manganese
• C. Calcium
• D. Potassium

Hint:

Manganese is crucial for the functioning of the oxygen-evolving complex in photosystem II, enabling the photolysis of water to occur and generating oxygen as a byproduct.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

The photolysis of water is a crucial step in the process of photosynthesis, specifically in the light-dependent reactions. This process involves the splitting of water molecules into oxygen, protons, and electrons. It takes place in the chloroplasts of plant cells. A specific component necessary for this reaction is the element manganese. Manganese acts as a vital cofactor in the oxygen-evolving complex of Photosystem II, assisting in the breakdown of water molecules.

Hence, the photolysis of water occurs in the presence of manganese.