To determine which information is not provided in the chemical reaction equation for photosynthesis, we need to carefully analyze the given equation:
[tex]$6 CO_2 + 6 H_2O \rightarrow C_6H_{12}O_6 + 6 O_2$[/tex]
Let's examine each of the options provided:
1. It does not show if the reaction is reversible:
- The chemical equation does not include any indication of reversibility. Typically, a reversible reaction is represented by a double arrow ([tex]\(\rightleftharpoons\)[/tex]), but this reaction only uses a single arrow ([tex]\(\rightarrow\)[/tex]), suggesting it is one-way.
2. It does not show the reactants needed for the reaction:
- The equation clearly lists the necessary reactants: [tex]\(CO_2\)[/tex] (carbon dioxide) and [tex]\(H_2O\)[/tex] (water).
3. It does not show that photosynthesis consists of many separate steps:
- The equation provided is a simplified, overall reaction that does not elaborate on the various intermediate steps involved in photosynthesis. Photosynthesis is a complex process that occurs in multiple stages, including the light-dependent reactions and the Calvin cycle. This detailed breakdown is not depicted in the equation.
4. It does not show the number of molecules required to produce glucose:
- The equation clearly states the stoichiometry of the reaction: 6 molecules of [tex]\(CO_2\)[/tex] and 6 molecules of [tex]\(H_2O\)[/tex] react to produce 1 molecule of [tex]\(C_6H_{12}O_6\)[/tex] (glucose) and 6 molecules of [tex]\(O_2\)[/tex].
Based on the analysis above, the correct information that is not given in the chemical reaction equation is:
It does not show that photosynthesis consists of many separate steps.
This conclusion is derived from recognizing that the equation represents an overall summary of the reactions occurring during photosynthesis but does not delve into the intricate, step-by-step processes actually involved.
