What is photosynthesis?
Photosynthesis can be described as the process whereby plants and some algae convert light energy obtained from the sun into chemical energy and stores it as glucose as bonds of sugar. Plants require light energy, carbon dioxide and water to make sugar. Photosynthesis takes place in mesophyll cells in plant leaves, these cells contain organelles called chloroplasts which contains a green pigment called chlorophyll this is where photosynthesis takes place. Chlorophyll absorbs red and blue light however we perceive this as green. Photosynthesis is the foundation of most food chains and food webs which means that all animals ultimately rely directly or through their prey on plants for energy. All animals require oxygen derived from plants, this oxygen would slowly fade if photosynthesis would not occur.
Chemical equation for photosynthesis is:- 6CO2 + 6H2O ------> C6H12O6 + 6O2 Sunlight energy Where: CO2 = carbon dioxide H2O = water Light energy is required C6H12O6 = glucose O2 = oxygen |