What is oxidized and reduced in photosynthesis?
Understand the Problem
The question is asking about the chemical processes that occur during photosynthesis, specifically identifying which substances are oxidized and which are reduced. In photosynthesis, carbon dioxide is reduced to glucose, while water is oxidized to oxygen.
Answer
Carbon dioxide is reduced, and water is oxidized.
The final answer is carbon dioxide is reduced to form sugar molecules, and water is oxidized to form oxygen molecules.
Answer for screen readers
The final answer is carbon dioxide is reduced to form sugar molecules, and water is oxidized to form oxygen molecules.
More Information
In the photosynthesis process, carbon dioxide gains electrons to become glucose, known as reduction. Water loses electrons to form oxygen, termed oxidation.
Tips
Common mistakes include confusing which molecules are oxidized and reduced. Remember, reduction involves gaining electrons, and oxidation involves losing electrons.