Enter title... Describe photosynthesis in chemical terms.

Human Anatomy & Physiology (11th Edition)
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**Title:** Describe Photosynthesis in Chemical Terms

**Content:** 
Photosynthesis is the biochemical process by which green plants, algae, and some bacteria convert light energy, usually from the sun, into chemical energy stored in glucose. This process occurs mainly in the chloroplasts of plant cells.

In chemical terms, photosynthesis can be represented by the following equation:

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

Here's a breakdown of the process:

1. **Light Absorption:** Chlorophyll molecules in the chloroplasts absorb sunlight.
2. **Water Splitting (Photolysis):** Water molecules (\(H_2O\)) are split into oxygen (\(O_2\)), protons, and electrons using the energy from sunlight.
3. **Carbon Fixation:** Carbon dioxide (\(CO_2\)) from the atmosphere is captured and, along with protons and electrons, used to synthesize glucose (\(C_6H_{12}O_6\)).
4. **Oxygen Release:** Oxygen produced during photolysis is released into the atmosphere as a byproduct.

The ultimate goal of photosynthesis is to convert solar energy into a stable form that can be used by the plant for growth and other vital functions, and it also plays a vital role in regulating atmospheric oxygen and carbon dioxide levels.
Transcribed Image Text:**Title:** Describe Photosynthesis in Chemical Terms **Content:** Photosynthesis is the biochemical process by which green plants, algae, and some bacteria convert light energy, usually from the sun, into chemical energy stored in glucose. This process occurs mainly in the chloroplasts of plant cells. In chemical terms, photosynthesis can be represented by the following equation: \[ 6CO_2 + 6H_2O + light \ energy \rightarrow C_6H_{12}O_6 + 6O_2 \] Here's a breakdown of the process: 1. **Light Absorption:** Chlorophyll molecules in the chloroplasts absorb sunlight. 2. **Water Splitting (Photolysis):** Water molecules (\(H_2O\)) are split into oxygen (\(O_2\)), protons, and electrons using the energy from sunlight. 3. **Carbon Fixation:** Carbon dioxide (\(CO_2\)) from the atmosphere is captured and, along with protons and electrons, used to synthesize glucose (\(C_6H_{12}O_6\)). 4. **Oxygen Release:** Oxygen produced during photolysis is released into the atmosphere as a byproduct. The ultimate goal of photosynthesis is to convert solar energy into a stable form that can be used by the plant for growth and other vital functions, and it also plays a vital role in regulating atmospheric oxygen and carbon dioxide levels.
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