Photosynthesis (carbon assimilation) explained

A plant carries out photosynthesis in its green parts using chloroplasts. The purpose of photosynthesis is the production of sugar (glucose) and oxygen (O2). For the process of photosynthesis a plant needs three things: water via its roots, carbon dioxide (CO2) via its leave stomata and sunlight or artificial light for energy. All plants require light for photosynthesis process.

Water + carbon dioxide + light → glucose + oxygen 

6 H2O + 6 CO2 → C6H12O6 + 6 O2

The glucose that is produced is converted into other compounds such as cellulose and starch. These compounds serve as food for humans and animals or as a fuel (wood) for humans. 

Plants use chlorophyll to absorb the light energy they need for photosynthesis. Chlorophyll can be found in the so-called chloroplasts. Chlorophyll gives the plant leaves their green colour. While all green plant parts contain chloroplasts, by far the most energy is produced in the leaves of the plant.

Plant metabolism and oxidation (dissimilation)

Just like human beings, plants use energy. They release this energy through the oxidation of glucose, producing carbon dioxide as a waste product. Plants, like human beings, use oxygen for this process, which is called oxidation.   

Glucose + oxygen → water + carbon dioxide + energy

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

As a result, during the day, when a plant goes through oxidation as well as photosynthesis processes, oxygen and carbon dioxide are exchanged in both directions. At the night photosynthesis does not occur, but oxidation continues. So at night plants use oxygen and release carbon dioxide.

Fortunately, plants use more carbon dioxide during photosynthesis than they produce during oxidation. And vice versa: they produce more oxygen during photosynthesis than they use during oxidation. 

Optimal growth and flowering processes

BAC foliar nutrition enables fast chlorophyll production in the plant leaves. It also helps to strengthen the plant as a whole. This way, pests such as mildew and botrytis have less of a chance to damage your crop. As a result, the photosynthesis process can be as effective as possible, resulting in the excellent growth and flowering of your plants.

Would you like to learn more about the effects of photosynthesis for your crop? We welcome you to contact our experienced advisors for personal advice.