Photosynthetic Reaction (AQA GCSE Biology Combined Science): Revision Notes
📚 Revision Notes
4.1.1 Photosynthetic Reaction
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Photosynthesis is the process by which plants, algae, and some bacteria convert light energy from the sun into chemical energy in the form of glucose. This endothermic reaction requires energy, which is absorbed from the environment and transferred to the chloroplasts in plant cells by light.
Photosynthesis Equation:
The overall balanced equation for photosynthesis is:
In chemical symbols:
- Carbon Dioxide: CO₂
- Water: H₂O
- Glucose: C₆H₁₂O₆
- Oxygen: O₂
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During this process, carbon dioxide and water are transformed into glucose and oxygen. The glucose produced is used by the plant for energy and growth, while the oxygen is released as a by-product into the atmosphere.