Necessary requirements for photosynthesis

The following requirements are necessary for photosynthesis to take place in plants:

1. Carbon dioxide gas
2. Water
3. Chlorophyll
4. Sunlight

Photosynthesis occurs when carbon dioxide reacts with water in the presence of chlorophyll and sunlight. The combination of water and carbon dioxide produces carbohydrate and oxygen. Part of the carbohydrate produced during photosynthesis is used by the plant to produce energy which is used in various ways by the plant. The excess carbohydrates are stored in different plant parts in form of starch. Therefore, when animals feed on leaves, roots, fruits and seeds from plants they obtain starch which was produced during photosynthesis. Oxygen gas produced during photosynthesis is released to the atmosphere and is used by animals including human beings for respiration.

The photosynthesis process is summarized in the following equation:

EQUATION