Photosynthesis

6CO2 + 6H2O → C6H12O6 + 6O2

Descripción general

The most important photochemical reaction on Earth. Plants, algae, and cyanobacteria use chlorophyll to capture sunlight and convert carbon dioxide and water into glucose and oxygen. The light reactions split water at photosystem II, while the Calvin cycle fixes CO₂. This reaction produces virtually all atmospheric oxygen and is the foundation of most food chains.

Participantes

Rol Sustancia Coeficiente Estado
Reactivo Carbon Dioxide CO₂ 6 (g)
Reactivo Water H₂O 6 (l)
Producto Glucose C₆H₁₂O₆ 1 (s)

Ejemplo cotidiano

Every bite of food you eat and every breath of oxygen you inhale ultimately traces back to photosynthesis.

Importancia industrial

Modelo para el desarrollo de celdas solares artificiales, fotocatálisis y bioeconomía basada en biomasa.

Propiedades

Tipo
Photochemical
Reversible
No
Energía
Endotérmico
ΔH
2803,0 kJ/mol
Catalizador
Chlorophyll

Reacciones relacionadas

Photochemical Smog Formation (NO₂ Photolysis) Photochromism of Spiropyran Chlorophyll Fluorescence Photodegradation of Methylene Blue by TiO₂ Photodissociation of Chlorine Gas Silver Bromide Photodecomposition Cis-Trans Isomerization of Retinal Ozone Formation by UV Light Silver Chloride Photodecomposition Dye-Sensitized Solar Cell (Grätzel Cell)

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the equation for Photosynthesis?
The balanced equation is: 6CO₂ + 6H₂O → C₆H₁₂O₆ + 6O₂.
What type of reaction is Photosynthesis?
Photosynthesis is a photochemical reaction.
Is Photosynthesis exothermic or endothermic?
Photosynthesis is endothermic (absorbs energy). The enthalpy change (ΔH) is 2803.0 kJ/mol.
What conditions are needed for Photosynthesis?
This reaction requires a catalyst (Chlorophyll).