Question

Name and discuss the various component of photosynthesis.

Answer 1

Photosynthesis:

1. Photosynthesis is a process by which autotrophs convert light energy into chemical energy, which is later used as food.
2. The process exclusively takes place in the chloroplasts through photosynthetic pigments i.e., chlorophyll, by using carbon dioxide, water, and sunlight.
3. It occurs in the chloroplast.
4. The process is commonly written as 6CO₂ + 6H₂O → C₆H₁₂O₆ + 6O₂

Components of photosynthesis:

Chlorophyll:

1. Chlorophyll is the green photosynthetic pigment that helps the plant to absorbs light energy.
2. It is contained in the thylakoid membrane present in the chloroplast.

Carbon dioxide:

1. It is absorbed through stomata which are the pores found mainly on the lower side of leaves.
2. Stomata are guarded by guard cells.
3. Carbon dioxide acts as the carbon source for sugar formation.

Water:

1. Water is one of the reactants in the photosynthesis process.
2. It provides the hydrogen needed to form glucose (sugar).
3. Six water molecules react with six carbon molecules to form one molecule of glucose.
4. The plant absorbs water from the soil by the root system.

Sunlight:

1. The energy from sunlight causes a chemical reaction that breaks down the molecules of carbon dioxide and water and reorganizes them to make glucose and oxygen.
2. Sunlight is absorbed by chlorophyll (green pigment).