Step 1: Begin by understanding the process of photosynthesis. Photosynthesis is the process by which plants, algae, and some bacteria convert light energy into chemical energy stored in glucose. The reactants are carbon dioxide (CO₂), water (H₂O), and light energy, while the products are glucose (C₆H₁₂O₆) and oxygen (O₂).
Step 2: Recall the general chemical equation for photosynthesis: 6CO₂ + 6H₂O + light energy → C₆H₁₂O₆ + 6O₂. This equation shows that six molecules of carbon dioxide and six molecules of water react in the presence of light energy to produce one molecule of glucose and six molecules of oxygen.
Step 3: Analyze the options provided in the problem. The correct equation must include the reactants (CO₂, H₂O, and light energy) on the left side and the products (C₆H₁₂O₆ and O₂) on the right side. Additionally, the equation must balance the number of atoms on both sides.
Step 4: Eliminate incorrect options. For example, the equation 'C₆H₁₂O₆ + 6O₂ → 6CO₂ + 6H₂O' represents cellular respiration, not photosynthesis. Similarly, '6O₂ + C₆H₁₂O₆ → 6CO₂ + 6H₂O + energy' also describes cellular respiration.
Step 5: Identify the correct equation: '6CO₂ + 6H₂O + light energy → C₆H₁₂O₆ + 6O₂'. This equation accurately represents photosynthesis, showing the conversion of carbon dioxide and water into glucose and oxygen using light energy.