Which of the following equation most adequately sums up the photosynthetic reaction?

Correct answer: D. 6CO2 + 12H2O + Light → C6H12O6 + 6O2 + 6H2O

  • A. CO2 + H2O + Light → CH2O + O2
  • B. C6H12O6 + 6H2O → 6CO2 + 6H2O
  • C. 6CO2 + 6H2O → C6H12O6 + 6O2
  • D. 6CO2 + 12H2O + Light → C6H12O6 + 6O2 + 6H2O

Explanation

Option D is correct because it describes the complete photosynthetic process where carbon dioxide (6CO2) and water (12H2O), in the presence of light energy, are converted into glucose (C6H12O6) and oxygen (6O2). This equation accurately balances the water molecules, with 12 being consumed and 6 being produced. Option A oversimplifies the reaction by not representing the full glucose molecule. Option B incorrectly describes cellular respiration, a process opposite to photosynthesis. Option C omits the essential role of light energy and does not account for the correct water balance.

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Cellular respiration explains how cells release energy from glucose through glycolysis, the link reaction, Krebs cycle and electron transport chain. It includes ATP production, substrate-level and oxidative phosphorylation, aerobic versus anaerobic respiration, and the roles of mitochondria, oxygen and fermentation in energy transfer.

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