2nd Nov '25

Photosynthesis

Unlike animals, plants are able to make their own using a chemical reaction called photosynthesis. That is why plants are found at the bottom of all food , making them vitally important to all to provide their food as well.

Sunlight is captured by in the chloroplasts. This energy powers the reaction. The reactants are water (H₂0) from the , and carbon dioxide (CO₂) from the . The energy breaks up these molecules to make two new products: (C₆H₁₂O₆) and (O₂).

Photosynethsis Word Equation

+ → +

Photosynethsis Word Equation

+ → +

The oxygen can be released as a waste product, or used by the plant for - another chemical reaction which takes place in every living cell.

A limiting factor is something that stops a reaction go any quicker. For photosynthesis to occur the plant needs:

and as with all reactions the rate will depend on

If there is an infinite concentration of CO₂, unless there is enough light it can not be used. In this case light would be the limiting factor.

Horticultural greenhouses control conditions to produce the greatest amount of growth.