Question

which is an example of why the process of photosynthesis is important to life on earth?
grass uses photosynthesis to produce glucose, which is used within the grass for growth.
fungi use photosynthesis to decompose dead and decaying plant matter.
ectothermic animals use photosynthesis to convert sunlight into energy for cell functions.
green plants use photosynthesis to remove oxygen gas from the atmosphere and replenish the earths carbon dioxide.

Explanation:

• Fungi: Fungi do not perform photosynthesis. They are decomposers that break down organic matter through other means (like secreting enzymes).
• Ectothermic animals: Ectothermic animals (e.g., reptiles) do not perform photosynthesis. They rely on external heat sources (like sunlight for warming their bodies) but get energy for cell functions from consuming food (which contains nutrients like carbohydrates, proteins, fats).
• Green plants and gases: Green plants use photosynthesis to take in carbon dioxide from the atmosphere and release oxygen (not the other way around as stated in the option).
• Grass (a plant): Plants like grass perform photosynthesis. The chemical reaction of photosynthesis is \(6CO_2 + 6H_2O

ightarrow C_6H_{12}O_6+6O_2\) (using light energy, usually from the sun). The glucose (\(C_6H_{12}O_6\)) produced can be used in cellular respiration (\(C_6H_{12}O_6 + 6O_2
ightarrow6CO_2+6H_2O+\text{Energy}\)) to release energy for growth, repair, and other life - sustaining processes in the plant.

Answer:

Grass uses photosynthesis to produce glucose, which is used within the grass for growth.