In the context of photosynthesis, the process can be summarized in terms of light reactions and the Calvin Cycle. In the light reactions, light energy is used to split water (H₂O) molecules, producing oxygen (O₂) and generating energy carriers like NADPH and ATP.
The Calvin Cycle, which occurs after the light reactions, uses the ATP and NADPH to convert carbon dioxide (CO₂) into glucose.
Given that substance Y is mentioned in the light reactions section before transitioning to the Calvin Cycle, and considering the products of the light reactions, it is most likely that:
- Y is O₂ (oxygen), produced from the splitting of water during the light reactions.
Thus, the answer is O₂ (oxygen).