Light-dependent and light-independent (Calvin cycle) reactions are the two stages of photosynthesis, occurring in different parts of the chloroplast. The light-dependent reactions use light energy, water, and occur in the thylakoid membranes, producing ATP, NADPH (energy carriers), and oxygen. The light-independent reactions take place in the stroma, using the ATP and NADPH from the first stage, along with carbon dioxide from the air, to create sugars like glucose.