Short answerModerate1 mark
Write the overall chemical equation for photosynthesis.
Topic: Equation for photosynthesis
Previous-year question practice database
Answer
Exam answer
6CO₂ + 12H₂O → C₆H₁₂O₆ + 6H₂O + 6O₂↑
(in the presence of SUNLIGHT and CHLOROPHYLL)
Explanation
SUNLIGHT and CHLOROPHYLL are CONDITIONS, not reactants — write them above and below the arrow, never on the left-hand side.
Use the 12-water form: twelve molecules are split during photolysis and six are re-formed in the dark reaction, which is why water appears on BOTH sides. It also shows that the oxygen released comes from WATER, not from carbon dioxide.
Mark the ↑ after O₂ to show a gas is given off.