Photosynthesis

• Photosynthesis is a process that takes place in the leaves and more specifically in the subcellular structures called chloroplasts.
• Chlorophyll is a pigment that can absorb light, which it uses to convert carbon dioxide and water into glucose and oxygen.
• The equation for photosynthesis can be written as six CO2 molecules combining with six H2O molecules to make a single molecule of glucose, resulting in six O2 molecules.
• The reaction requires light energy for it to take place, and when energy from the surroundings is used to help a reaction take place, it is called an endothermic reaction.
• Energy is transferred from the environment to chloroplasts by light.
• The carbon dioxide diffuses into the leaves through the stomata and the water is taken up from the soil by the roots and then transported to the leaves via the xylem.
• The only product that the plants really want is the glucose, which they use for solar respiration, photosynthesis, and for making cellulose, starch, amino acids, and oils.
• Glucose is essential for plants' growth rate, which is often dependent on how fast they can photosynthesize.