Which process is primarily responsible for producing energy for plants?

Which process is primarily responsible for producing energy for plants?

• A. Cellular respiration
• B. Decomposition
• C. Photosynthesis
• D. Nitrogen fixation

Answer: (C)

Photosynthesis is the process primarily responsible for producing energy in plants. During photosynthesis, plants use sunlight, carbon dioxide, and water to create glucose and oxygen. The overall chemical equation summarizing this process is: 6CO₂ + 6H₂O + light energy → C₆H₁₂O₆ + 6O₂ In this equation, carbon dioxide and water are converted into glucose, which serves as energy storage for the plant. This glucose can be utilized immediately for energy or stored for later use. The energy harnessed from sunlight during this process is fundamental for the growth and functioning of the plant, making it the primary source of energy for all plants. In contrast, cellular respiration refers to the process by which plants (and animals) convert glucose into energy, but it relies on the glucose produced through photosynthesis. Decomposition involves the breakdown of organic matter and does not directly relate to energy production in plants. Nitrogen fixation is a process that converts atmospheric nitrogen into forms usable by plants but does not involve energy production. Thus, photosynthesis is the key process that enables plants to harness energy from the environment.

Photosynthesis is the process primarily responsible for producing energy in plants. During photosynthesis, plants use sunlight, carbon dioxide, and water to create glucose and oxygen. The overall chemical equation summarizing this process is:

6CO₂ + 6H₂O + light energy → C₆H₁₂O₆ + 6O₂

In this equation, carbon dioxide and water are converted into glucose, which serves as energy storage for the plant. This glucose can be utilized immediately for energy or stored for later use. The energy harnessed from sunlight during this process is fundamental for the growth and functioning of the plant, making it the primary source of energy for all plants.

In contrast, cellular respiration refers to the process by which plants (and animals) convert glucose into energy, but it relies on the glucose produced through photosynthesis. Decomposition involves the breakdown of organic matter and does not directly relate to energy production in plants. Nitrogen fixation is a process that converts atmospheric nitrogen into forms usable by plants but does not involve energy production. Thus, photosynthesis is the key process that enables plants to harness energy from the environment.