Step 1: Understand the process of photosynthesis. Photosynthesis is the process by which plants, algae, and some bacteria convert carbon dioxide (CO₂) and water (H₂O) into glucose (C₆H₁₂O₆) and oxygen (O₂) using sunlight energy.
Step 2: Recall the general formula for photosynthesis. The balanced chemical equation for photosynthesis is: 6CO₂ + 6H₂O → C₆H₁₂O₆ + 6O₂. This equation represents the reactants (carbon dioxide and water) and the products (glucose and oxygen).
Step 3: Analyze the options provided. Look for the equation that matches the balanced chemical equation for photosynthesis. Ensure the number of atoms for each element is equal on both sides of the equation.
Step 4: Verify the stoichiometry. In the correct equation, 6 molecules of CO₂ react with 6 molecules of H₂O to produce 1 molecule of glucose (C₆H₁₂O₆) and 6 molecules of O₂. This ensures the conservation of mass and follows the law of conservation of matter.
Step 5: Eliminate incorrect options. For example, equations that have incorrect stoichiometric coefficients or reverse the direction of the reaction are not representative of photosynthesis. Select the equation that accurately represents the process.