Question

Reflect and Apply Would you expect the production of sugars by plants in photosynthesis to be an exergonic or endergonic process? Give the reason for your answer.

Short answer

Photosynthesis is an endergonic process because it requires energy input from sunlight.

Step-by-step solution

Understand Photosynthesis

Photosynthesis is the process by which plants use sunlight to synthesize foods with the help of chlorophyll in the chloroplasts. The primary products are glucose (a type of sugar) and oxygen.

Define Exergonic and Endergonic Processes

An exergonic process releases energy, whereas an endergonic process requires energy input to proceed. Exergonic reactions typically result in the release of energy, while endergonic reactions consume energy.

Determine the Nature of Photosynthesis

Photosynthesis involves converting carbon dioxide and water into glucose and oxygen, using the energy from sunlight. This requires the absorption of energy.

Analyze Energy Requirement

Since photosynthesis requires an input of energy (sunlight) to convert reactants into products, it consumes energy.

Conclusion

The production of sugars by plants in photosynthesis is an endergonic process because it requires the absorption of energy.

Key concepts

Endergonic Process

Photosynthesis is a classic example of an endergonic process. This means that it requires an input of energy to proceed, rather than releasing energy.

An endergonic process follows these key points:

• Energy is absorbed from the surroundings.
• The energy input is essential for the reaction to occur.
• The overall energy (Gibbs free energy) of the system increases.

In photosynthesis specifically, plants absorb sunlight to power the production of glucose and oxygen. Without this energy input, the reaction cannot proceed. This indicates that the entire process is endergonic, emphasizing the need for energy absorption in synthesizing complex molecules like glucose.

Energy Absorption

Energy absorption is a crucial aspect of photosynthesis. Plants capture energy from sunlight using chlorophyll, a green pigment found in the chloroplasts of their cells.

Here’s how energy absorption takes place:

• Sunlight reaches the chloroplasts.
• Chlorophyll absorbs photons (particles of light), energizing its electrons.
• This energy is then used to convert carbon dioxide and water into glucose and oxygen.

Without this step, plants wouldn't be able to produce the energy-rich glucose needed for their survival and growth. The energy from sunlight is indispensable, making energy absorption an integral part of the photosynthetic process.

Glucose Production

Glucose production is the main objective of photosynthesis. The glucose created provides plants with essential energy and serves as a building block for growth.

Key points about glucose production:

• Glucose is formed through a series of reactions called the Calvin cycle.
• It acts as an energy source for various cellular activities.
• Excess glucose is stored as starch or used to form cellulose for cell walls.

By producing glucose, plants not only sustain themselves but also generate oxygen as a byproduct, which is vital for life on Earth. This dual outcome highlights the importance of photosynthesis in both maintaining plant health and supporting life globally.