Which of these equations best summarizes photosynthesis?

1. C₆H₁₂O₆ + 6O₂ → 6CO₂+ 6H₂O
2. 6CO₂ + 6H₂O → C₆H₁₂O₆ + 6O₂
3. 6CO₂ + 6H₂O → C₆H₁₂O₆ + 3O₂
4. C₆H₁₂O₆ + 6O₂ → 6CO₂ + 3H₂O + Energy

Answer: (2) 6CO₂ + 6H₂O → C₆H₁₂O₆+ 6O₂

Explanation

This equation accurately represents the overall process of photosynthesis. It shows the conversion of six carbon dioxide (CO2) molecules and six water (H2O) molecules into one glucose (C6H12O6) molecule and six oxygen (O2) molecules, powered by sunlight energy. While option (1) represents cellular respiration, the opposite process, option (3) has incorrect stoichiometry and option (4) lacks the energy component.