In oxygenic photosynthesis (as in plants), what are the main end products of the overall process?

• A. Carbon dioxide and water
• B. Lactic acid and ethanol
• C. Glucose (carbohydrate) and oxygen
• D. ATP and NADPH

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand that oxygenic photosynthesis is the process by which plants convert light energy into chemical energy, using carbon dioxide and water as raw materials.
2. Recall the general equation for oxygenic photosynthesis: \$6\ \text{CO}_2 + 6\ \text{H}_2\text{O} + \text{light energy} \rightarrow \text{C}_6\text{H}_{12}\text{O}_6 + 6\ \text{O}_2$.
3. Identify the main products on the right side of the equation: glucose (a carbohydrate) and oxygen gas.
4. Recognize that ATP and NADPH are intermediate energy carriers produced during the light-dependent reactions, but they are not the final end products of the overall photosynthesis process.
5. Conclude that the main end products of oxygenic photosynthesis are glucose and oxygen, which are used by the plant and other organisms for energy and growth.