Chapter 24, Problem 42A

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation: The process of photosynthesis should be described.

Concept introduction: The chemical reactions of photosynthesis take place within chloroplasts, which are found in the mesophyll of plant leaves

Answer to Problem 42A

During the process of photosynthesis, chlorophyll uses sunlight’s energy, water, and carbon dioxide to produce glucose and oxygen.

Explanation of Solution

During the process of photosynthesis, light energy is converted into chemical energy by chlorophyll once it has been absorbed by chlorophyll. The process of photosynthesis converts carbon dioxide into a carbohydrate known as glucose by using the energy provided by sunlight.

The chemical reaction is as follows:

  $\underset{\text{Carbon dioxide}}{{\text{6CO}}_{\text{2}}}\text{+}\underset{\text{Water}}{{\text{6H}}_{\text{2}}\text{O}}\text{+}\underset{\text{from sunlight}}{\text{Energy}}\to \underset{\text{Glucose}}{{\text{C}}_{\text{6}}{\text{H}}_{\text{12}}{\text{O}}_{\text{6}}}\text{+}\underset{\text{Oxygen}}{{\text{6O}}_{\text{2}}}$

Conclusion

During the process of photosynthesis, chlorophyll uses sunlight’s energy, water, and carbon dioxide to produce glucose and oxygen.