Photosynthesis can be considered as a process about which we have been hearing since our childhood. This can be regarded as a process that plays a huge role in sustaining life on this planet. Hence, we must have a clear knowledge when it comes to the different aspects of photosynthesis.
It must be kept in mind that when it comes to any chemical process, the reactants and products are of utmost importance. This is applicable in the process of photosynthesis too. So, a lot of people might wonder what are the products of photosynthesis.
The reactants are utilized during the process of photosynthesis, and after the completion of the reaction, the end products are produced. These end products are often used by the other organisms. So, it is appropriate to say that, in one way or another, all the organisms depend upon this process
We might know what happens during the process, as well why it is important for the plants. But, when it comes to the reactants and products of photosynthesis, the majority of us might get a bit confused. So, without wasting further time, let’s take a look at the process of photosynthesis, the concerned products, and reactants.
See what happens during photosynthesis
Before discussing what are the products of photosynthesis, let’s take a look at the events which occur during photosynthesis.
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As we have already mentioned, the process of photosynthesis is very important for all living organisms on the earth. We might think that it is only vital for the plants. But, it is not so, and the animals also depend a lot on this process.
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It can be considered as the only biological phenomenon that has the capability of capturing the energy that comes from the sun. This energy is then converted into chemical compounds that are known as carbohydrates. Every organism uses these compounds to fuel the process of metabolism.
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If you want to discuss this phenomenon from a chemical point of view, then it can be said that first of all, the energy from sunlight is captured. Thereafter, this energy is utilized for energizing the electrons. This energy is then stored in the covalent bonds that are present in the sugar molecules.
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The process of photosynthesis occurs in the leaves of the plants in the majority of the cases. It must be kept in mind that the leaves contain multiple cell layers, and the process of photosynthesis occurs in the middle layer. This layer is known as the mesophyll.
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The entire process of photosynthesis takes place in two phases, and they are known as light-dependent reactions, as well as the light independent-reactions. From the name itself, it is evident that the light-dependent reactions need the light energy for their completion. At the same time, the light independent reactions take place in the absence of light.
Know what are the products of photosynthesis
We have taken a look at the process of photosynthesis, as well as where it happens. Now, let’s go through the products obtained during this phenomenon.
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The end products of this important process are glucose and oxygen. The oxygen produced during this process exits the plant’s body through stomata. The entire process of photosynthesis produces 6 oxygen molecules.
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The oxygen released during the process of photosynthesis is used by all the human beings, as well as the animals for the purpose of respiration. Thus, it is appropriate to say that the plants play a very significant role when it comes to maintaining the levels of oxygen in the atmosphere.
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Now, let’s take a look at the other product, that is glucose. The process of photosynthesis produces 1 glucose molecule. This glucose molecule can be used for a number of purposes.
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It should be kept in mind that plants keep only a minute quantity of this glucose for immediate use. Some molecules of glucose are combined through dehydration synthesis to produce cellulose. This cellulose is then utilized as a structural material in the plants.
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Some glucose molecules also get converted into starch. The plants use this chemical compound to store energy for later use. The starch is also utilized by other organisms that depend on these green plants for their nutrition.
Check out the reactants of photosynthesis
Now that we know what are the products of photosynthesis, let’s take a look at the reactants of this process. They are quite important because, without them we will not be able to get the end products of photosynthesis, that is, oxygen and glucose.
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The reactants of this biological phenomenon are carbon dioxide, and water. The process of photosynthesis utilities 6 molecules of carbon dioxide, as well as 6 molecules of water.
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The carbon dioxide needed for photosynthesis enters the plant through the leaf stomata. The entry of carbon dioxide occurs by a process known as diffusion.
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Water can be considered as an important reactant in the process of photosynthesis, and it is mainly absorbed by the roots. After absorption, this water is transported to leaves via the xylem.
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In addition to that, solar energy is also an integral aspect of this process, and it is absorbed by the green pigment known as chlorophyll which is abundantly present in the leaves.
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In the case of the plants, the photosynthetic reactions take place in the chloroplasts. On the other hand, when it comes to the photosynthetic bacteria, this process occurs where chlorophyll, or other related pigment is present.
Conclusion
We have discussed what are the products of photosynthesis. Along with that, we have also taken a look at the process in general, and the reactants involved. As we have already stated, photosynthesis is also a chemical process, and hence, the availability of the reactants will determine the amount of products that could be made. This means if the availability of carbon dioxide and water gets affected in any manner, then it will automatically slow down the production of glucose and oxygen. Temperature can be regarded as another factor that influences the rate of photosynthesis to a great extent. The overall condition, and health of the plants is also of immense importance when it comes to photosynthesis.
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