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 earth’s carbon dioxide.

Explanation:

• Grass is a plant that undergoes photosynthesis. The chemical equation for photosynthesis is \(6CO_2 + 6H_2O

ightarrow C_6H_{12}O_6+6O_2\). Plants use the glucose (\(C_6H_{12}O_6\)) produced for growth, repair, and energy - related processes.

• Fungi do not perform photosynthesis. They are decomposers that obtain nutrients by breaking down dead organic matter through processes like extracellular digestion.
• Ectothermic animals (e.g., reptiles) do not perform photosynthesis. They rely on external heat sources to regulate their body temperature and obtain energy from consuming food (heterotrophic nutrition).
• Green plants use photosynthesis to take in \(CO_2\) (not remove \(O_2\)) from the atmosphere and release \(O_2\) as a by - product.

Answer:

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