Photosynthesis

What is Photosynthesis? Food-making process of plants and some algae. Changes light energy to chemical energy Energy stored as sugar Takes place in the chloroplasts, using chlorophyll, the green pigment in plants Most important chemical reaction on our planet.

Equation for Photosynthesis

Chloroplasts

Overall Steps in Photosynthesis Chlorophyll molecules trap energy from the sun Energy from sun used to change carbon dioxide gas (CO2) and water (H2O) into a simple sugar called glucose. Oxygen is produced. CO2 + H2O + energy (sunlight)  glucose (sugar) + O2

Other Photosynthesis Details Carbon dioxide enters the leaf through holes called stomata The sugar is moved through tubes in the leaf to the roots, stems and fruits of the plants Some of the sugar is used right away by the plant for energy; some is stored as starch; and some is built into plant tissue

What Happens During Photosynthesis? Sunlight Carbon Dioxide Water Sugar Oxygen

Why is this important to us? We cannot make our own food (glucose, energy), we must get our food from plants. Oxygen released during photosynthesis is necessary for all living things. Plants are the first step in the food chain.

Summary Questions What are the raw materials needed for photosynthesis? What are the products? How do plants get energy? How do animals get energy? What role does chlorophyll play in photosynthesis? Where is chlorophyll found? List three ways that autotrophs were important to you today.