What is photosynthesis?
Photosynthesis, or photosynthesis, is the biochemical process by which plants produce oxygen and release it into the air. In doing so, they convert carbon dioxide and water into energy-rich substances needed for growth. This process is not only vital for the survival of the plant itself, but is one of the central foundations of all life on Earth.
How photosynthesis works step by step
The basis for photosynthesis is the green pigment chlorophyll , which is found in the chloroplasts of plant cells. It enables the plant to absorb sunlight and use the energy for further processes.
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Light absorption : The plant absorbs light via chlorophyll
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Gas absorption : Carbon dioxide from the air also enters the plant through small stomata in the leaves.
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Water absorption : Water is absorbed from the soil via the roots and transported to the leaves.
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Energy conversion : Chlorophyll uses light energy to chemically convert water and carbon dioxide.
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Product formation : This produces sugar (as an energy source and building material for growth) and oxygen (which is released back into the air as a “waste product”).
Chemical background
The short formula for photosynthesis is:
6 CO₂ + 6 H₂O + light → C₆H₁₂O₆ + 6 O₂
It is a redox reaction, meaning a combined reduction and oxidation reaction. Light is not consumed, but rather provides the energy for the reaction. During photosynthesis, carbon dioxide and water are converted into sugar (glucose) and oxygen.
Factors that influence photosynthesis
For plants to carry out photosynthesis, various conditions must be right. The amount and quality of light play a key role: the more sunlight a plant receives, the more actively it can photosynthesize. Therefore, it is particularly important to choose the right location for houseplants. Some houseplants require a lot of light, while others are suited to darker rooms . The amount of water and nutrients are also crucial, as they are needed as starting materials and auxiliary factors. Furthermore, the carbon dioxide content of the air influences the process; without CO₂, no photosynthesis can take place. Finally, temperature and humidity also play a role, as many plants can only function optimally in a specific environment.
Special features of houseplants
Houseplants perform the same process as plants in nature, but are often adapted to lower light levels, as many species originate from shady rainforest areas. Therefore, they can also photosynthesize on windowsills or in partially shaded rooms, as long as there is sufficient daylight. Furthermore, many houseplants are able to absorb pollutants from the air, thus contributing to a healthier indoor climate. Typical air-purifying plants include snake plants, peace lilies, and spider plants.
Photosynthesis in special plant species
In addition to these classic houseplants, there are also species that have developed a modified form of photosynthesis. A special group are the so-called CAM (Crassulacean Acid Metabolism) plants, which include many succulents, cacti, and some orchids. These plants have adapted to dry locations and open their stomata at night rather than during the day. In this way, they absorb carbon dioxide, store it temporarily, and use it the next day for photosynthesis. This means they lose less water through evaporation and can survive even in very dry environments. For plant owners, this means that many succulents can thrive despite low watering and dry indoor air.
