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Multiple Choice
What is the balanced chemical equation for photosynthesis?
A
6CO2 + 6H2O → C6H12O6 + 6O2 + light energy
B
6CO2 + 6H2O + light energy → C6H12O6 + 6O2
C
C6H12O6 + 6H2O → 6CO2 + 6O2 + light energy
D
C6H12O6 + 6O2 → 6CO2 + 6H2O + energy
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the process of photosynthesis: Photosynthesis is the process by which green plants, algae, and some bacteria convert light energy, usually from the sun, into chemical energy stored in glucose. This process involves the transformation of carbon dioxide and water into glucose and oxygen, using light energy.
Identify the reactants and products: In photosynthesis, the reactants are carbon dioxide (CO2), water (H2O), and light energy. The products are glucose (C6H12O6) and oxygen (O2).
Write the unbalanced equation: Start by writing the basic equation for photosynthesis, which is CO2 + H2O + light energy → C6H12O6 + O2.
Balance the equation: Ensure that the number of atoms for each element is equal on both sides of the equation. For photosynthesis, the balanced equation is 6CO2 + 6H2O + light energy → C6H12O6 + 6O2. This means 6 molecules of carbon dioxide and 6 molecules of water are needed to produce 1 molecule of glucose and 6 molecules of oxygen.
Verify the balanced equation: Double-check that the number of atoms for carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen are equal on both sides of the equation. There should be 6 carbon atoms, 12 hydrogen atoms, and 18 oxygen atoms on each side, confirming the equation is balanced.