Understand 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 general equation for photosynthesis involves carbon dioxide (CO₂), water (H₂O), glucose (C₆H₁₂O₆), and oxygen (O₂).
Identify the reactants and products: In photosynthesis, the reactants are carbon dioxide (CO₂) and water (H₂O), and the products are glucose (C₆H₁₂O₆) and oxygen (O₂). This process requires light energy, which is absorbed by chlorophyll in the chloroplasts.
Write the balanced chemical equation: The balanced equation for photosynthesis is 6CO₂ + 6H₂O → C₆H₁₂O₆ + 6O₂. This shows that six molecules of carbon dioxide and six molecules of water are converted into one molecule of glucose and six molecules of oxygen.
Compare the given options: Look at each option and determine which one matches the balanced equation for photosynthesis. The correct equation should have CO₂ and H₂O as reactants on the left side and C₆H₁₂O₆ and O₂ as products on the right side.
Select the correct answer: The correct equation is 6CO₂ + 6H₂O → C₆H₁₂O₆ + 6O₂, as it accurately represents the process of photosynthesis. Eliminate the other options that do not match this balanced equation.