Biology Notes
Topic: Photosynthesis
Student Name: __________
Class: 8
Date: __________
Introduction
Photosynthesis is one of the most important biological processes on Earth. It is the way green
plants, algae, and some bacteria produce food by using sunlight. Without photosynthesis, life as
we know it would not exist, because it provides oxygen for breathing and food for all living
organisms.
Definition
Photosynthesis is the process by which green plants use sunlight, carbon dioxide, and water to
make glucose (food) and release oxygen as a by-product.
Word Equation
Carbon dioxide + Water → Glucose + Oxygen
(in the presence of sunlight and chlorophyll)
Chemical Equation:
6CO2+6H2O→light,chlorophyllC6H12O6+6O26CO_2 + 6H_2O \xrightarrow{light, chlorophyll}
C_6H_{12}O_6 + 6O_26CO2+6H2Olight,chlorophyllC6H12O6+6O2
Requirements for Photosynthesis
1. Sunlight – the main source of energy.
2. Chlorophyll – the green pigment in leaves that traps light.
3. Carbon dioxide (CO₂) – obtained from the air through tiny openings called stomata.
4. Water (H₂O) – absorbed by roots from the soil.
Stages of Photosynthesis
1. Light Reaction (Light-dependent stage):
o Takes place in the chloroplasts.
o Requires sunlight.
o Water molecules split into hydrogen and oxygen.
o Oxygen is released into the air.
o Energy is stored in the form of ATP (Adenosine Triphosphate).
2. Dark Reaction (Light-independent stage / Calvin Cycle):
o Does not require sunlight directly.
o Uses ATP and hydrogen (from light reaction) with carbon dioxide.
o Glucose is produced.
Importance of Photosynthesis
Provides food (glucose) for plants and indirectly for all animals.
Produces oxygen which is essential for respiration.
Helps maintain the balance of oxygen and carbon dioxide in the atmosphere.
Forms the basis of the food chain.
Removes excess CO₂, reducing global warming.
Examples in Daily Life
Trees in cities reduce pollution by absorbing carbon dioxide.
Greenhouses use artificial lights to increase photosynthesis and crop yield.
Practice Questions
1. Write the word and chemical equations for photosynthesis.
2. Explain the role of chlorophyll in the process.
3. Why is photosynthesis important for human survival?
4. What happens if a plant is kept in the dark for several days?
5. Describe two ways farmers can increase the rate of photosynthesis in crops.
Conclusion
Photosynthesis is not only vital for plants but for all living organisms. It ensures a continuous
supply of oxygen and food, making life possible on Earth. Without photosynthesis, the Earth
would have no green plants, no animals, and no humans.
