THE UNIQUENESS OF PHOTOSYNTHESIS

With the inception of civilization and technology, many of the natural processes have been modified to gratify certain desires. In so doing, some natural processes have been improved and others destroyed.

Besides, effluence from industrialization has also damaged or altered some natural processes. The alteration and in some cases, destruction of natural processes have resulted in a world full of environmental disasters. For instance, diversion of a river course or encroachment of watershed area leads to flooding which the consequences are fatal to human life and destruction of properties.

However, there is one natural process that is unique. Man cannot modify it in anyway. No amount of human civilization or technology can replace our dependence on photosynthesis. Photosynthesis is the primary natural process that supports the existence of life on earth. There would be no life on earth without photosynthesis. This is well illustrated by the energy trophic levels which would be discussed in subsequent write ups. Photosynthesis is simply, how plants prepare their own food. It is this same food that man depends on for survival. Animals also feed on plants to build up good flesh for our consumption.

In addition, the bye-products of photosynthesis are also vital for the existence of life. These bye-products are water and oxygen. Respiration can never take place without oxygen an in effect, respiration is directly linked with the existence of plants. This analogy gives meaning to the saying ‘when the last tree dies, the last man dies’. Trees are also very significant in the hydrological process that makes water available for our domestic use and agriculture.

Even though man cannot modify photosynthesis, it can be destroyed by the activities of man. Any activity that endangers the existence of plants also destroys photosynthesis. It can be felling of trees, destruction of forest cover for what so ever reasons. Moreover, any activity that destroys the favourable conditions that support plants survival destroys photosynthesis.

In view of the above discussed knowledge about the uniqueness of photosynthesis, we should always be mindful of activities that harm trees because, indirectly we put our own lives in danger.