Photosynthesis Flashcards
What is needed for photosynthesis?
Light from the sun, carbon dioxide diffused from the air and water from the soil.
What is produced?
Glucose for biomass and energy and oxygen , which is released as a by-product.
What is the symbol equation for photosynthesis?
6CO2 + 6H2O —-> C6H12O6 + 6O2
What is the two stage process of photosynthesis?
1) Light energy is used to split water, re
Easily oxygen gas and hydrogen ions.
2) Carbon dioxide gas then reacts with the hydrogen ions to make glucose and water.
How was the chemistry of photosynthesis discovered?
Radioactive isotopes were used to discover the source of oxygen in photosynthesis. ‘Heavy water’ with an oxygen atomic with an atomic mass of 18 rather than 16 was allowed to be absorbed through its roots. The plant was allowed to absorb atmospheric carbon dioxide as normal. When this heavier oxygen atom was traced it was found to be present in the oxygen that was released from the leaves of the plant. Furthermore, it was concluded that none of the evolved oxygen came from the carbon dioxide initially taken in by the plant. This proves the chemical theory
