What is the general chemical equation of photosynthesis? Why doesn't that equation clearly show the real origin of the molecular oxygen liberated?
The general equation of photosynthesis is:
6 CO2 + 6 H2O + light --> C6H12O6 + 6 O2.
Water molecules are also formed in the chemical stage of photosynthesis as the following complete equation reveals:
6 CO2 + 12 H2O + light --> C6H12O6 + 6 H2O + 6 O2