Question

what are the reactants for photosynthesis? (select all that apply)

a. \\(\text{h}_2\text{o}\\) (water)
b. \\(\text{c}_6\text{h}_{12}\text{o}_6\\) (glucose)
c. \\(\text{o}_2\\) (oxygen)
d. \\(\text{co}_2\\) (carbon dioxide)

Explanation:

Identify the chemical equation for photosynthesis

Using the Experimental Design in Photosynthesis knowledge point, we recall the balanced chemical equation representing the process of photosynthesis in green plants:

$$ 6\text{CO}_2 + 6\text{H}_2\text{O} \xrightarrow{\text{light energy}} \text{C}_6\text{H}_{12}\text{O}_6 + 6\text{O}_2 $$

Distinguish reactants from products

In a chemical equation, reactants are the starting substances written on the left side of the reaction arrow, while products are the substances formed, written on the right side.

• Reactants: Carbon dioxide (\(\text{CO}_2\)) and water (\(\text{H}_2\text{O}\)).
• Products: Glucose (\(\text{C}_6\text{H}_{12}\text{O}_6\)) and oxygen (\(\text{O}_2\)).

Match with the given options

We evaluate each option based on our identification of the reactants:

• A. \(\text{H}_2\text{O}\) (water): This is a starting material (reactant).
• B. \(\text{C}_6\text{H}_{12}\text{O}_6\) (glucose): This is a produced sugar (product).
• C. \(\text{O}_2\) (oxygen): This is a released gas (product).
• D. \(\text{CO}_2\) (carbon dioxide): This is a starting material (reactant).

Therefore, the correct reactants are water and carbon dioxide.

Answer:

• A. \(\text{H}_2\text{O}\) (water) (Correct answer)
• B. \(\text{C}_6\text{H}_{12}\text{O}_6\) (glucose)
• C. \(\text{O}_2\) (oxygen)
• D. \(\text{CO}_2\) (carbon dioxide) (Correct answer)