Plants prepare their food through a process called photosynthesis, which requires sunlight, chlorophyll, water, and carbon dioxide present in the atmosphere. Chlorophyll, a green pigment present in plant leaves, captures sunlight, which provides the energy needed to convert water and carbon dioxide into glucose, a reserve food material for plants. Oxygen is released as a by-product in the whole process.
The equation of photosynthesis is
6CO2 + 6H2O → C6H12O6 + 6O2
The process of photosynthesis depends upon various factors, like
Light Intensity: The rate of photosynthesis increases with the light intensity and vice versa
CO2 Concentration: The higher the concentration of carbon dioxide in the air, the greater the rate of photosynthesis. A decrease in the level of CO2 in the atmosphere will also decrease the photosynthesis process.
Temperature: Photosynthesis occurs most effectively at temperatures between 25° and 35°C.
Water: When water is deficient in plants, the leaves close their stomata to prevent water loss through evaporation. This leads to a decrease in the photosynthesis process.
Pollution: When pollution in the air is high, the pollutant particles settle on the leaves, causing blockage of the stomatal opening and consequently causing hindrance in the photosynthesis process.
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