Which of the following are the main reactants required for photosynthesis in plants?

• A. Oxygen and glucose
• B. Glucose and carbon dioxide
• C. Nitrogen and water
• D. Carbon dioxide and water

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the process of photosynthesis: Photosynthesis is the process by which plants convert light energy into chemical energy stored in glucose. This process occurs in the chloroplasts and requires specific reactants.
2. Identify the main reactants: Photosynthesis requires carbon dioxide (CO₂) from the atmosphere and water (H₂O) absorbed by the plant roots. These are the primary reactants.
3. Recall the chemical equation for photosynthesis: The general formula is: ${6\mathrm{CO}}_2+{6H2O}_2\to {C6H\mathrm{12}O6}_1+{6O}_2$. This equation shows that carbon dioxide and water are converted into glucose and oxygen using light energy.
4. Eliminate incorrect options: Oxygen and glucose are products of photosynthesis, not reactants. Nitrogen is not involved in the photosynthesis process. Therefore, the correct reactants are carbon dioxide and water.
5. Conclude: The main reactants required for photosynthesis in plants are carbon dioxide (CO₂) and water (H₂O). These reactants are essential for the light-dependent and light-independent reactions in the chloroplasts.