Which gas is produced during photosynthesis?

During photosynthesis, plants convert light energy, typically from the sun, into chemical energy in the form of glucose. This process primarily takes place in the chloroplasts of plant cells. A key aspect of photosynthesis involves the intake of carbon dioxide from the atmosphere and water absorbed by the roots.

The overall equation for photosynthesis can be summarized as follows:

6 CO₂ + 6 H₂O + light energy → C₆H₁₂O₆ + 6 O₂.

In this equation, carbon dioxide and water are the reactants, while glucose and oxygen are the products. Thus, oxygen is released as a byproduct of photosynthesis, which is crucial for many living organisms, including humans, as it is essential for respiration. The role of oxygen production highlights the importance of photosynthesis in maintaining oxygen levels in the atmosphere and supporting life on Earth.