Algae utilize photosynthesis primarily by converting carbon dioxide (CO2) and/or bicarbonate into essential organic compounds and releasing oxygen.
The Process of CO2 Conversion in Algae
According to Wilberforce et al. (2019) and Gong and You (2015), algae grow mostly through the process of photosynthesis. This biological process involves:
- Input: Taking in CO2 and/or bicarbonate from their environment.
- Conversion: Using light energy to transform these inorganic carbon sources.
- Output: Producing oxygen and various carbon-containing products that the algae use for growth and energy.
This conversion is a highly efficient method for carbon capture and utilization.
Algae's CO2 Uptake Efficiency
Algae are notable for their significant capacity to absorb CO2. Their uptake of CO2 is approximately twice the weight of the algae itself. This rate is considerably higher than many industrial absorption technologies, being 10 to 50 times greater (Wilberforce et al., 2019; Gong and You, 2015).
