AP BIOLOGY

Detailed explanation-1: -The enzyme that facilitates this reaction and therefore underpins virtually all life on our planet is known as photosystem II (PSII), a multisubunit enzyme embedded in the lipid environment of the thylakoid membranes of plants, algae, and cyanobacteria.

Detailed explanation-2: -Abstract. Photosystem II (PSII) is a multisubunit enzyme embedded in the lipid environment of the thylakoid membranes of plants, algae and cyanobacteria. Powered by light, this enzyme catalyses the chemically and thermodynamically demanding reaction of water splitting.

Detailed explanation-3: -Photolysis is the process of breaking water molecules using the energy provided by light. The molecule photosystem II, on the surface of the thylakoid membrane, traps light energy and energizes electrons causing water to be split into its individual hydrogens and oxygen.

Detailed explanation-4: -Final answer: Photolysis of water is caused by PS-II .

Detailed explanation-5: -Photolysis term denotes light dependent split of water leading to oxidation of water. This process occurs in thylakoid lumen in association with photosystem II. Mineral ions required for photolysis of water are manganese, calcium and chlorine.