Which of these equations best summarizes photosynthesis?

A. C₆H₁₂O₆ + 6 O₂ → 6 CO₂ + 6 H₂O + Energy

B. C₆H₁₂O₆ + 6 O₂ → 6 CO₂ + 12 H₂O

C. 6 CO₂ + 6 H₂O → C₆H₁₂O₆ + 6 O₂

D. 6 CO₂ + 6 O₂ → C₆H₁₂O₆ + 6 H₂O

E. H₂O → 2 H⁺ + 1/2 O₂ + 2e⁻

Answer

The equation that best summarizes photosynthesis is:

C. 6 CO₂ + 6 H₂O → C₆H₁₂O₆ + 6 O₂

Explanation:

1. Photosynthesis Overview:

Photosynthesis is the process by which green plants, algae, and some bacteria convert light energy into chemical energy stored in glucose, while releasing oxygen as a byproduct. The overall process occurs in two main stages: the light-dependent reactions and the light-independent reactions (Calvin cycle).

2. Chemical Equation:

The simplified overall reaction for photosynthesis can be summarized by the equation C. In this equation:

Thus, option C accurately represents the key components and outcomes of the photosynthesis process.

Other Options Analysis:

A: Incorrect because it suggests glucose and oxygen are products, which is not accurate for photosynthesis.

B: Incorrect since it incorrectly has 12 water molecules as products, which is not part of the photosynthesis equation. D: Incorrect because it reverses the process of photosynthesis; it represents respiration instead. E: Incorrect as it describes the process of water splitting (photolysis) that occurs during the light reactions but doesn't encompass the entire photosynthesis process.

In summary, option C encapsulates the photosynthesis process correctly.