Read the following statements regarding the phases of photosynthesis: Statement I: The photochemical phase includes light absorption, water splitting, and oxygen release. Statement II: The biosynthetic phase occurs only in the absence of light. Statement III: H ₂ O is the primary electron donor in the light reaction. Statement IV: CO ₂ assimilation takes place directly on the thylakoid membrane. How many of the above

Step-by-step solution

Statement I is correct: The photochemical phase (light reaction) involves light absorption, splitting of water, release of oxygen, and formation of ATP and NADPH. Statement II is incorrect: The biosynthetic phase (dark reaction) does not require light directly, but it occurs in the presence of light as well. It is not restricted to the absence of light. Statement III is correct: Splitting of water provides the electrons needed to replace those removed from Photosystem II, making H ₂ O the primary electron donor. St