In the overall equation for photosynthesis, where does oxygen (\(\mathrm{O_2}\)) appear?

• A. As a catalyst above the arrow
• B. As a reactant on the left side of the equation
• C. As a product on the right side of the equation
• D. It does not appear in the equation

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Begin by recalling the overall equation for photosynthesis, which is typically written as: 6CO₂ + 6H₂O → C₆H₁₂O₆ + 6O₂. This represents the process where carbon dioxide and water are converted into glucose and oxygen using light energy.
2. Step 2: Identify the components of the equation. On the left side, you have the reactants: carbon dioxide (CO₂) and water (H₂O). On the right side, you have the products: glucose (C₆H₁₂O₆) and oxygen (O₂).
3. Step 3: Understand the role of oxygen in photosynthesis. Oxygen (\(\mathrm{O_2}\)) is produced during the light-dependent reactions of photosynthesis when water molecules are split (a process called photolysis). This oxygen is released as a byproduct.
4. Step 4: Analyze the placement of oxygen (\(\mathrm{O_2}\)) in the equation. Since it is produced during the process, it appears on the right side of the equation as a product, not as a reactant or catalyst.
5. Step 5: Conclude that oxygen (\(\mathrm{O_2}\)) is a product of photosynthesis and appears on the right side of the equation, confirming the correct answer.