Plant cells undergo photosynthesis to produce glucose, a usable form of chemical energy. The energy produced by plants becomes the base of an energy pyramid. Given the situation seen above, what reactant is missing in order for photosynthesis to occur?
Responses
A waterwater
B ozoneozone
C chlorophyllchlorophyll
D radiant energy
A
The reactant that is missing in order for photosynthesis to occur is A) water.
In order for photosynthesis to occur, plants need certain reactants. Let's analyze the options given:
A) Water: This is one of the reactants needed for photosynthesis. During photosynthesis, water is absorbed by the roots of the plant and transported to the chloroplasts where it is used in the light-dependent reactions.
B) Ozone: Ozone is not directly involved in the process of photosynthesis. It is a gas composed of three oxygen atoms and plays a role in protecting the Earth from harmful UV rays in the atmosphere.
C) Chlorophyll: Chlorophyll is a pigment found in the chloroplasts of plant cells. It plays a crucial role in photosynthesis by capturing light energy. Although essential for photosynthesis, chlorophyll is not a reactant but rather a component involved in the process.
D) Radiant energy: Radiant energy, also referred to as light energy, is a necessary reactant for photosynthesis. It is the energy source that is absorbed by chlorophyll and other pigments to drive the process.
Based on the given options, the correct answer is D: radiant energy. This is the missing reactant for photosynthesis to occur.