To determine the role of water ([tex]$H_2O$[/tex]) in the chemical reaction given by the equation:
[tex]\[ 6 \, \text{CO}_2 + 6 \, \text{H}_2\text{O} \xrightarrow{\text{Light}} \text{C}_6\text{H}_{12}\text{O}_6 + 6 \, \text{O}_2 \][/tex]
we need to identify on which side of the reaction water appears.
1. Understanding the Chemical Equation:
- The equation represents the process of photosynthesis.
- The reactants (substances that undergo chemical changes) are listed on the left side of the arrow.
- The products (new substances formed as a result of the reaction) are listed on the right side of the arrow.
2. Identify the Position of Water ([tex]$H_2O$[/tex]):
- In the given equation, water ([tex]$H_2O$[/tex]) appears on the left side.
[tex]\[ 6 \, \text{CO}_2 + 6 \, \text{H}_2\text{O} \xrightarrow{\text{Light}} \text{C}_6\text{H}_{12}\text{O}_6 + 6 \, \text{O}_2 \][/tex]
3. Determine the Role:
- Since water ([tex]$H_2O$[/tex]) is on the left side of the equation, it is consumed during the reaction.
- This means water ([tex]$H_2O$[/tex]) is a substance that undergoes a chemical change and is therefore a reactant.
Based on the positions and definitions:
- A catalyst is a substance that speeds up a reaction without being consumed in the process. Water does not fit this definition here.
- A product is a substance formed as a result of the reaction and appears on the right side of the equation.
Thus, water ([tex]$H_2O$[/tex]) is a reactant in this chemical equation.
