Reactants of Photosynthesis & Respiration (as well as the product)

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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers on the reactants and products of photosynthesis and respiration, including the equations that represent these processes. Participants explore the details of the chemical equations and the role of energy in these reactions.

Discussion Character

  • Technical explanation
  • Conceptual clarification
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant states the reactants of photosynthesis as 6H2O + 6CO2 and the products as C6H12O6 + 6O2, while also mentioning the reactants for respiration as glucose and oxygen, yielding 6H2O + 6CO2.
  • Another participant emphasizes the need to include light energy in the photosynthesis equation and suggests that the respiration equation should be labeled as "aerobic respiration" which yields ATP.
  • A participant questions whether the term "free energy" is appropriate when discussing ATP, suggesting it may be confusing and recommending the term "energy source" instead.
  • One participant provides a more detailed breakdown of the equations for photosynthesis and respiration, including the mention of energy yield in terms of ATP and heat.
  • There is a light-hearted comment regarding the timeliness of one participant's submission, suggesting a humorous take on the context of the discussion.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree on the basic structure of the equations for photosynthesis and respiration, but there are differing views on terminology and the inclusion of certain components, such as light energy and ATP. The discussion remains unresolved regarding the best way to express these concepts.

Contextual Notes

Some participants express uncertainty about the terminology used, particularly regarding "free energy" and its relation to ATP, indicating a need for clarity in definitions. The discussion also reflects varying levels of familiarity with the concepts involved.

RainGurl
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I just want to know if the info that I am retaining is right.

The reactants of photosynthesis is

6H20 + 6CO2

which would be six molecules of water and six molecules of carbon dioxide.

The product - would be C6H12O6 + 6O2 which would be one molecule of sugar plus six molecules of O2.

The reactants for respiration are glucose and oxygen.

The product would be 6H2O + 6CO2.


If this is correct please let me know, so I know I am on the right track..
Thanks RG
 
Last edited:
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Don't forget to put light in the photosynthesis equation :) Also, be sure to denote the second equation as "aerobic respiration" and it yields ATP (energy). You're on the right track.
 
GoneRogue said:
Don't forget to put light in the photosynthesis equation :) Also, be sure to denote the second equation as "aerobic respiration" and it yields ATP (energy). You're on the right track.

Ohhhhhhhhhhh

so it would be 6Co2 + 6H20 + light energy ..right?



The free energy would that be the ATP?

Glucose + oxygen --------> carbon dioxide + water (free energy)
(aerobic respiration)
 
Yes, the photosynthesis equation is looking good.

I wouldn't use the term "free energy" with ATP as it can be confusing when you start to learn about Gibbs Free Energy. Just call it an "energy source". The equation you provided also needs ATP on the reactants side.
 
GoneRogue said:
Yes, the photosynthesis equation is looking good.

I wouldn't use the term "free energy" with ATP as it can be confusing when you start to learn about Gibbs Free Energy. Just call it an "energy source". The equation you provided also needs ATP on the reactants side.

Where would I put the ATP ?
 
Photosynthesis
6H20 + 6CO2 + light energy(absorbed by chlorophyll --> C6H12O6 + 6O2

So
6*water + 6*Carbon dioxide + light --> 1*glucose + 6*oxygen

Respiration
C6H12O6 + 6O2 --> 6CO2 + 6H2O + energi ( 38 ATP-molekyler= 40%)( + 60% Heat).

So
1*Glucose + 6*oxygen --> 6 carbon dioxide + 6*water + energi(38 ATP-molekyler= 40%)( + 60% Heat)
 
I hope RainGurl's teacher is accomodating and will allow her to turn in her work a bit late... 4 1/2 years late!
 
Nice!
 

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