1. All matter contains thermal energy because thermal energy is a form of kinetic energy that arises from the movement of particles within the matter. This movement occurs at the microscopic level, where even in solids, the particles vibrate. In gases and liquids, the particles move more freely. Therefore, thermal energy is present in all matter because of the inherent motion of its particles.
2. Photosynthesis is a vital process carried out by plants, algae, and some bacteria that converts light energy into chemical energy in the form of glucose. Here's how it works:
a. Plants have specialized organelles called chloroplasts that contain chlorophyll, a pigment that absorbs sunlight.
b. During photosynthesis, chlorophyll absorbs light energy from the sun.
c. This light energy is used to convert carbon dioxide (CO2) from the air and water (H2O) from the soil into glucose (C6H12O6) and oxygen (O2).
d. The overall chemical equation for photosynthesis is: 6CO2 + 6H2O + light energy → C6H12O6 + 6O2.
e. Glucose produced during photosynthesis is used by plants as a source of energy for growth, reproduction, and other metabolic processes.
f. Oxygen, a byproduct of photosynthesis, is released into the atmosphere, which is essential for the survival of most living organisms, as it is used in cellular respiration to release energy.
By understanding photosynthesis, we can appreciate the crucial role plants play in producing oxygen, sustaining ecosystems, and providing food for various organisms.
