The photosystems are named after the wavelength for which they are the most reactive. Photosystem II is P680 which means that it has the highest reavtivity when light that is 680 nanometers (nm) hits it. Photosystem I works off the same principle; however, it is named P700 because the optimal wavelength for it is 700 nm.
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Photosystem I preferentially absorbs light at wavelengths of around 700 nm, appearing as P700, while Photosystem II preferentially absorbs light at wavelengths of around 680 nm, appearing as P680.
Photosystems I and II are both in the thylakoid membranes of the chloroplast.
Photosystems Photosystems
There are two photosystems, and they can be found embedded in the thylakoid membranes. They are linked by electron transport molecules.
The evidence for two photosystems in plants comes from experiments using isolated chloroplasts, which have shown that two distinct light reactions occur in the thylakoid membrane. Additionally, differences in absorption spectra and electron transport pathways of Photosystem I and Photosystem II provide further evidence for the existence of two separate photosystems.
Having multiple structurally different pigments in the reaction centers of photosystems allows for a broader absorption spectrum of light. This enables the photosystem to capture light energy across a wider range of wavelengths, maximizing the efficiency of photosynthesis. Additionally, these pigments work together to transfer excitation energy towards the reaction center, where it is converted into chemical energy.