# Explain why plants need light in order to carry out photosynthesis.

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

> Plants are found in a variety of environments, from dense forests to open fields. In all these environments, plants rely on photosynthesis to produce food.

## Mark scheme (4 marks)

1. Light provides the energy for photosynthesis
2. Photosynthesis is an endothermic reaction (so energy must be transferred in from the environment)
3. Without light, carbon dioxide and water cannot be converted into glucose (and oxygen)
4. Light is absorbed by chloroplasts / chlorophyll in the leaves

## Key terms

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

## 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)

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Source: [GradeNine](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/q/explain-why-plants-need-light-in-cf392b29) · Published by Druglandscape Ltd.