What is photosynthesis?
a. Photosynthesis is the process autotrophs use to make energy.
b. Photosynthesis is the process autotrophs use to make sugar.
c. Photosynthesis is the process heterotrophs use to make sugar.
d. Photosynthesis is the process heterotrophs use to make energy.
The correct answer and explanation is:
The correct answer is b. Photosynthesis is the process autotrophs use to make sugar.
Photosynthesis is a biochemical process used by autotrophs, such as plants, algae, and some bacteria, to convert light energy from the sun into chemical energy stored in glucose, a type of sugar. This process takes place primarily in the chloroplasts of plant cells, where chlorophyll absorbs light energy. The general equation for photosynthesis can be represented as follows:
6CO₂ + 6H₂O + light energy → C₆H₁₂O₆ + 6O₂
In this equation, carbon dioxide (CO₂) and water (H₂O) are used as raw materials, and light energy is absorbed by chlorophyll to power the reactions. As a result, glucose (C₆H₁₂O₆), a simple sugar, is produced, along with oxygen (O₂) as a byproduct. The glucose produced is used by the plant as a source of energy and is stored for future use. It can also serve as a building block for other essential molecules, such as starch and cellulose.
The process of photosynthesis can be broken down into two main stages: the light-dependent reactions and the light-independent reactions (also known as the Calvin cycle). During the light-dependent reactions, light energy is captured and used to produce ATP (adenosine triphosphate) and NADPH, two molecules that store energy. In the light-independent reactions, ATP and NADPH are used to convert carbon dioxide into glucose.
Through photosynthesis, plants not only produce energy for themselves but also release oxygen into the atmosphere, which is essential for the survival of many organisms, including humans. Therefore, photosynthesis plays a critical role in maintaining life on Earth by contributing to the oxygen supply and forming the basis of the food chain.