Is photosynthesis considered an endothermic or exothermic process?

Photosynthesis is classified as an endothermic process because it involves the absorption of energy, specifically in the form of sunlight. During photosynthesis, plants convert light energy into chemical energy by synthesizing glucose from carbon dioxide and water. This reaction requires energy input, which is captured by chlorophyll in the chloroplasts of plant cells.

The overall equation for photosynthesis is:

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

This equation highlights that light energy is a required component for producing glucose and oxygen from carbon dioxide and water. Since energy is absorbed to drive the reaction forward, it signifies that the process is endothermic. In contrast, an exothermic process would release energy to the surroundings.