Chapter 1 : Photosynthesis and the Carbon Cycle
1. Photosynthesis
Definition: The process by which plants, algae, and some bacteria convert light
energy into chemical energy stored in glucose.
Requirements:
o Raw materials: Carbon dioxide (CO₂), water (H₂O)
o Energy source: Sunlight
o Catalyst: Chlorophyll (green pigment in leaves)
Word equation:
Carbon dioxide + Water → Glucose + Oxygen
(in presence of sunlight and chlorophyll)
Balanced chemical equation:
6CO₂ + 6H₂O → C₆H₁₂O₆ + 6O₂
Importance:
o Produces food (glucose) for plants and animals.
o Releases oxygen for respiration.
o Reduces atmospheric CO₂.
Exam tip: Remember "6-6-6-6" — six CO₂ and six H₂O give glucose (C₆H₁₂O₆) and six O₂.
2. The Carbon Cycle
Definition: The natural process that moves carbon between the atmosphere, living
organisms, oceans, and the Earth.
Main processes:
1. Photosynthesis – Plants take in CO₂ from air.
2. Respiration – Living organisms release CO₂.
3. Decomposition – Dead organisms’ carbon returns to soil/air.
4. Combustion – Burning fuels/wood releases CO₂.
5. Ocean exchange – Oceans absorb/release CO₂.
Importance:
o Keeps CO₂ levels balanced.
o Supports food chains and climate stability.
3. Climate Change and Its Impact
Cause: Build-up of greenhouse gases (mainly CO₂, methane) traps heat —
greenhouse effect.
Human activities increasing CO₂:
o Burning fossil fuels (coal, oil, gas).
o Deforestation.
o Industrial processes.
Impacts:
o Global warming.
o Melting ice caps, rising sea levels.
o Extreme weather events (storms, droughts, floods).
o Habitat loss and species extinction.
Solutions:
o Switch to renewable energy.
o Plant more trees (afforestation).
o Conserve energy.
o Reduce, reuse, recycle.
Quick Revision Table
Process Role in Carbon Cycle Effect on CO₂ in Atmosphere
Photosynthesis Removes CO₂ Decreases
Respiration Releases CO₂ Increases
Combustion Releases CO₂ Increases
Decomposition Releases CO₂ Increases
Suggested Diagrams for Exam:
1. Photosynthesis process diagram – showing sunlight, CO₂ in, O₂ out.
2. Carbon cycle diagram – arrows showing movement between plants, animals,
atmosphere, oceans, and fossil fuels.