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Multiple Choice
Which of the following is needed for photosynthesis to occur?
A
Nitrogen ($\mathrm{N_2}$)
B
Methane ($\mathrm{CH_4}$)
C
Oxygen ($\mathrm{O_2}$)
D
Carbon dioxide ($\mathrm{CO_2}$)
Verified step by step guidance
1
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. This process requires specific reactants.
Identify the key reactants for photosynthesis: The main inputs for photosynthesis are carbon dioxide ($\mathrm{CO_2}$), water ($\mathrm{H_2O}$), and sunlight. These are essential for the chemical reactions to occur.
Recall the chemical equation for photosynthesis: The general equation is $6\mathrm{CO_2} + 6\mathrm{H_2O} + \text{light energy} \rightarrow \mathrm{C_6H_{12}O_6} + 6\mathrm{O_2}$. This shows that carbon dioxide ($\mathrm{CO_2}$) is a necessary reactant.
Eliminate incorrect options: Nitrogen ($\mathrm{N_2}$), methane ($\mathrm{CH_4}$), and oxygen ($\mathrm{O_2}$) are not required as reactants for photosynthesis. Oxygen ($\mathrm{O_2}$) is actually a product of the process.
Conclude that carbon dioxide ($\mathrm{CO_2}$) is the correct answer: Based on the chemical equation and the requirements of photosynthesis, carbon dioxide ($\mathrm{CO_2}$) is essential for the process to occur.