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Which equation best summarizes the overall reactions of photosynthesis?

A) 6 CO2 + 6 H2O → C6H12O6 + 6 O2
B) C6H12O6 + 6 O2 → 6 CO2 + 6 H2O
C) NADPH + ATP → NADP+ + ADP + Pi
D) H2O + light energy → 2H+ + 1/2 O2 + e-

User Remick
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1 Answer

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Final answer:

The best equation to summarize photosynthesis is 6 CO2 + 6 H2O + Light Energy → C6H12O6 + 6 O2, which shows the transformation of carbon dioxide and water into glucose and oxygen using sunlight.

Step-by-step explanation:

The equation that best summarizes the overall reactions of photosynthesis is 6 CO2 + 6 H2O + Light Energy → C6H12O6 + 6 O2. This equation indicates that photosynthesis converts carbon dioxide and water into glucose and oxygen using the energy from sunlight.

During photosynthesis, two main stages occur: the light-dependent reactions and the light-independent reactions or Calvin cycle. The light-dependent reactions harness solar energy to produce ATP and NADPH, while the Calvin cycle uses those energy carriers to fix carbon dioxide into glucose. Overall, photosynthesis is a critical biological process that not only produces essential organic compounds but also releases oxygen, which is crucial for the survival of aerobic organisms.

User Thomas Leduc
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