Question

Write and then explain the equation for photosynthesis.

Short answer

The equation for photosynthesis can be written as: \[ 6CO2 + 6H2O \xrightarrow{light} C6H12O6 + 6O2 \] This equation shows that in the presence of light, six molecules of carbon dioxide (6CO2) and six molecules of water (6H2O) are converted into one molecule of glucose (C6H12O6) and six molecules of oxygen (6O2). The glucose is used by the photosynthetic organisms for energy and growth, while the oxygen is released into the atmosphere as a byproduct.

Step-by-step solution

Identify the reactants of photosynthesis

The reactants of photosynthesis are carbon dioxide (CO2) and water (H2O). These two compounds are combined within the photosynthetic organisms in the presence of light, as a source of energy, to produce glucose (energy-storing molecule) and oxygen (O2).

Identify the products of photosynthesis

The products of photosynthesis are glucose (C6H12O6) and oxygen (O2). Glucose is a sugar used by the photosynthetic organisms for energy and growth, while oxygen is released into the atmosphere as a byproduct.

Write the unbalanced equation for photosynthesis

Before balancing the equation, we can write the unbalanced equation by placing the reactants and products in their respective sides. The unbalanced equation for photosynthesis is as follows: \[ CO2 + H2O \xrightarrow{light} C6H12O6 + O2 \]

Balance the equation for photosynthesis

In order to balance the equation for photosynthesis, we must ensure that the number of atoms for each element is equal on both sides of the equation. The balanced equation for photosynthesis is: \[ 6CO2 + 12H2O \xrightarrow{light} C6H12O6 + 6O2 + 6H2O \]

Simplify the balanced equation

We can further simplify the balanced equation by removing the 6H2O from both sides of the equation. The simplified balanced equation for photosynthesis is: \[ 6CO2 + 6H2O \xrightarrow{light} C6H12O6 + 6O2 \]

Explain the equation for photosynthesis

The equation for photosynthesis represents the transformation of light energy into chemical energy stored as glucose, releasing oxygen as a byproduct. In this process, six molecules of carbon dioxide (6CO2) and six molecules of water (6H2O) are utilized in the presence of light energy, resulting in the production of one molecule of glucose (C6H12O6) and six molecules of oxygen (6O2).

Key concepts

Chemical Reactions

In photosynthesis, several chemical reactions work together to transform simple molecules into more complex ones. These reactions take place within the chloroplasts of plant cells, where light energy initiates the process. Chlorophyll, the green pigment in plants, captures light energy, which then splits water molecules ( H_2O ) into hydrogen and oxygen molecules. This splitting releases electrons, which are essential for the next stages of photosynthesis.

Ultimately, the chemical reactions involved in photosynthesis can be represented by a balanced equation. This equation shows how carbon dioxide ( CO_2 ) and water are converted into glucose ( C_6H_{12}O_6 ) and oxygen ( O_2 ), under the influence of light energy. Here's what these reactions ensure:

• They convert light energy into chemical energy stored in glucose.
• They release oxygen as a byproduct, which is vital for most life on Earth.

These reactions demonstrate the beauty and complexity of nature, turning energy from the sun into the food we eat and the air we breathe.

Glucose Production

The primary goal of photosynthesis is the production of glucose, which is a form of sugar. Glucose serves as an essential energy source for plants, supporting their growth, repair, and reproduction. It is also a starting point for producing other carbohydrates, like cellulose and starch, which plants use for structure and energy storage respectively.

During photosynthesis, carbon dioxide comes from the air, while water is absorbed by plant roots. These substances undergo a transformation powered by light, where the chemical energy from the sunlight is stored within the bonds of glucose. This stored energy can later be used by the plant or other organisms that consume it.

Key aspects of glucose production include:

• Glucose is the primary fuel molecule generated by photosynthesis.
• It provides energy to plants and the organisms that consume them.
• It forms the base of the food chain, making life possible in terrestrial ecosystems.

Glucose production is vital not only for plants but for all living things that depend on them for energy.

Oxygen Release

One of the most important benefits of photosynthesis is the release of oxygen into the atmosphere. As water molecules split during the chemical reactions of photosynthesis, oxygen is produced as a byproduct. This oxygen-released has a significant impact on life on Earth.

Oxygen is crucial for the respiration of most living organisms. It provides the molecular fuel that cells need for various biological processes. Beyond its biological role, oxygen helps maintain atmospheric balance and supports life in aquatic and terrestrial habitats.

Important points about oxygen release include:

• Oxygen is a byproduct of splitting water during photosynthesis.
• It is essential for the respiratory processes of most organisms.
• It helps maintain ecological balance by replenishing the atmospheric supply.

The release of oxygen through photosynthesis shows not only how plants contribute to the ecosystem but also highlights the interdependence of life on the planet.