Question

State two significances of photosynthesis

Answer 1

Significance of Photosynthesis

Photosynthesis is the only process which produces enormous quantities of organic matter for sustaining the life on this globe. It is the only known method of manufacture of organic food from inorganic raw materials. Animals including man are directly or indirectly dependent on photosynthetic plants for their food. All flesh is grass.

Photosynthetic products not only build up the bodies of organisms but also provide energy for carrying out metabolic activities and different types of movements. The chemical energy present in the organic food is the converted form of radiant or solar energy. All life is bottled sunshine.

Coal, petroleum and natural gas represent the photosynthetic capital of the past geological ages. They have been formed by the application of heat and compression over the plant and animal bodies in the deeper layers of earth. Along with wood they provide a sufficient portion of energy required for domestic, industrial and transport needs.

Several materials derived from the organic world (and hence photosynthesis) are in our daily use.

Examples: Natural fibres, drugs, vitamins, gums, tannins, turpentine, furniture, etc.

Oxygen is being constantly consumed and carbon dioxide evolved by the respiration of animals and plants and by the burning of wood, coal, petroleum or natural gas. High carbon dioxide content of the atmosphere is toxic. Lower concentrations of oxygen are equally harmful. Luckily, green plants keep the concentration of the two gases almost constant by absorbing carbon dioxide and evolving oxygen during photosynthesis.