Question

What is photosynthesis? Name the organs and organelles (cell structures) where photosynthesis occurs.
Where is oxygen released during this process? What happens to the carbohydrates that are not immediately used by plants?

Hint:

Photosynthesis occurs in leaves, specifically in chloroplasts. Oxygen exits through stomata, and excess sugars are stored as starch.

Answer 1

Definition: Photosynthesis is the process by which green plants synthesize food (glucose) using carbon dioxide, water, and sunlight in the presence of chlorophyll. \[ \text{6CO}_2 + \text{6H}_2\text{O} \xrightarrow{\text{light, chlorophyll}} \text{C}_6\text{H}_{12}\text{O}_6 + \text{6O}_2 \] Organs involved:
- Leaves (main site of photosynthesis)
Organelles:
- Chloroplasts (contain chlorophyll)
Oxygen release:
- Oxygen is released from the stomata on the leaves.
Fate of unused carbohydrates:
- Excess glucose is converted into starch and stored in roots, stems, and leaves.