The scientific term for the reaction that utilizes light energy in photosynthesis is light-dependent reactions. These reactions occur within the thylakoid membranes of chloroplasts, where chlorophyll captures sunlight to convert it into chemical energy. Water molecules are split during this process, resulting in the release of oxygen as a byproduct and the production of energy carriers ATP and NADPH. This energy is then used in the subsequent Calvin cycle for converting carbon dioxide into glucose. The light-dependent reactions are essential for the photosynthetic process, enabling plants to create food from sunlight.