Which three inputs are required for photosynthesis in plants?

• A. Carbon dioxide, glucose, and oxygen
• B. Nitrogen gas, water, and light energy
• C. Carbon dioxide, water, and light energy
• D. Oxygen, glucose, and light energy

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand that photosynthesis is the process by which plants convert light energy into chemical energy stored in glucose.
2. Recall the general photosynthesis equation: \$6\,CO_2 + 6\,H_2O + \text{light energy} \rightarrow C_6H_{12}O_6 + 6\,O_2$.
3. Identify the inputs on the left side of the equation, which are carbon dioxide (\(CO_2\)), water (\(H_2O\)), and light energy.
4. Recognize that glucose (\(C_6H_{12}O_6\)) and oxygen (\(O_2\)) are products, not inputs, so they cannot be considered required inputs for photosynthesis.
5. Conclude that the three required inputs for photosynthesis are carbon dioxide, water, and light energy.