What reactants are involved in photosynthesis?

A. [tex] C_2 H_4 O_2 [/tex] and [tex] H_2 O [/tex] and chemical energy
B. [tex] C_2 H_4 O_2 [/tex] and [tex] H_2 O [/tex] and sunlight energy
C. [tex] H_2 O [/tex] and [tex] CO_2 [/tex] and sunlight energy
D. [tex] H_2 O [/tex] and [tex] CO_2 [/tex] and chemical energy



Answer :

Photosynthesis is a process by which green plants, algae, and some bacteria convert light energy into chemical energy, storing it in the bonds of glucose, a type of sugar. The general equation for photosynthesis is:

[tex]\[ 6 \, CO_2 + 6 \, H_2O + \text{light energy} \rightarrow C_6H_{12}O_6 + 6 \, O_2 \][/tex]

Here is a breakdown of the equation:

- CO₂ (Carbon Dioxide): This gas is taken from the atmosphere through small openings in the leaves known as stomata.
- H₂O (Water): Water is absorbed by the plant roots from the soil.
- Light energy: This energy is captured by chlorophyll, a green pigment in plant cells.

The products of photosynthesis are glucose (C₆H₁₂O₆), which is used for energy and growth, and oxygen (O₂), which is released into the atmosphere.

Given these reactants, the correct answer is:

C. [tex]$H _2 O$[/tex] and [tex]$CO _2$[/tex] and sunlight energy