The main products of photosynthesis are glucose and oxygen. During photosynthesis, plants convert carbon dioxide and water into glucose, a sugar that serves as an energy source and building block for growth, and oxygen, which is released as a byproduct into the atmosphere
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- Glucose (C6H12O6): This carbohydrate is synthesized in the light-independent reactions (Calvin cycle) using energy from ATP and NADPH produced in the light-dependent reactions. Glucose can be used immediately by the plant for energy or converted into other carbohydrates like starch and sucrose for storage and structural purposes
- Oxygen (O2): Oxygen is generated during the light-dependent reactions when water molecules are split to release electrons and hydrogen ions. The oxygen atoms from water combine to form oxygen gas, which is released into the air through the stomata of leaves. This oxygen is vital for aerobic organisms, including humans, as it supports cellular respiration
In summary, photosynthesis produces glucose as the chemical energy storage molecule and oxygen as a crucial byproduct that sustains aerobic life on Earth.
