Let's analyze the generalized photosynthesis equation:
[tex]\[ 6 \text{CO}_2 + 6 \text{H}_2 \text{O} \rightarrow \text{C}_6 \text{H}_{12} \text{O}_6 + 6 \text{O}_2 \][/tex]
In this equation:
- The substances present on the left side of the arrow are the reactants.
- The substances on the right side of the arrow are the products.
Given the equation:
[tex]\[ 6 \text{CO}_2 + 6 \text{H}_2 \text{O} \rightarrow \text{C}_6 \text{H}_{12} \text{O}_6 + 6 \text{O}_2 \][/tex]
The reactants are:
1. \( \text{CO}_2 \) (carbon dioxide)
2. \( \text{H}_2 \text{O} \) (water)
Now, let's address the given options to determine which are reactants:
- Carbon dioxide: Yes, it is a reactant.
- Glucose: No, it is a product (\( \text{C}_6 \text{H}_{12} \text{O}_6 \)).
- Oxygen: No, it is a product (\( \text{O}_2 \)).
- Water: Yes, it is a reactant.
Therefore, the reactants of photosynthesis are:
- Carbon dioxide
- Water