Question

Write a short explanation of the photosynthesis chemical formula

Answers

GPT-4o mini
Photosynthesis is the process by which green plants, algae, and some bacteria convert light energy into chemical energy, using carbon dioxide and water to produce glucose and oxygen. The overall chemical equation for photosynthesis is:

\[
6 \text{CO}_2 + 6 \text{H}_2\text{O} + \text{light energy} \rightarrow \text{C}_6\text{H}_{12}\text{O}_6 + 6 \text{O}_2
\]

In this formula:

- **6 CO₂** represents six molecules of carbon dioxide absorbed from the atmosphere.
- **6 H₂O** represents six molecules of water absorbed from the soil.
- **Light energy** is primarily sourced from sunlight, which drives the reaction.
- **C₆H₁₂O₆** is glucose, a simple sugar that serves as an energy source for the plant.
- **6 O₂** represents six molecules of oxygen, which are released as a byproduct into the atmosphere.

This process is crucial for sustaining life on Earth, as it provides oxygen for respiration and forms the base of the food chain.