# Explain why photosynthesis is described as an endothermic reaction.

> AQA GCSE Biology (8461) — 4.4.1 Photosynthesis · Explain · 4 marks

> Plants carry out photosynthesis to produce food. Carbon dioxide and water are converted into glucose and oxygen during this process.

## Mark scheme (4 marks)

1. Energy is transferred/absorbed FROM the environment (into the chloroplasts/plant)
2. The energy is transferred by light
3. In an endothermic reaction, energy is taken in / the reaction requires an energy input
4. The energy is transferred to the chloroplasts

## Key terms

- [photosynthesis](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/glossary/photosynthesis)
- [endothermic](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/glossary/endothermic)

## Related

- [Revision notes for AQA GCSE Biology (8461)](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/learn)
- [How to answer "Explain" questions](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/tools/command-word-cheatsheet)
- [Practice this with AI marking (free)](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/start)

---
Source: [GradeNine](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/q/explain-why-photosynthesis-is-described-as-d28f17b0) · Published by Druglandscape Ltd.