Which process is most directly driven by light energy? a. creation of a pH gradient by pumping protons across the thylakoid membrane b. reduction of NADP+ molecules c. transfer of energy from pigment molecule to pigment molecule d. ATP synthesis

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1. Identify the process that involves light energy directly. Light energy is primarily absorbed by pigment molecules in photosynthesis.
2. Analyze option (a): The creation of a pH gradient by pumping protons across the thylakoid membrane is an indirect result of light energy, primarily driven by the electron transport chain which is powered by energy from electrons excited by light.
3. Analyze option (b): The reduction of NADP+ molecules to NADPH occurs in the light reactions of photosynthesis, but it is an indirect use of light energy, facilitated by the electrons energized by light.
4. Analyze option (c): The transfer of energy from pigment molecule to pigment molecule occurs directly as light energy is absorbed by pigments and passed along to other pigment molecules in the photosystem.
5. Conclude that option (c) is the most directly driven by light energy, as it involves the immediate absorption and transfer of light energy among pigment molecules.