Yes, photosynthesis is anabolic.
Understanding Anabolism and Photosynthesis
Anabolism refers to metabolic pathways that construct molecules from smaller units. These processes require energy input. Photosynthesis perfectly exemplifies this: it builds complex sugar molecules (like glucose) from simpler inorganic molecules—carbon dioxide (CO2) and water (H2O). This synthesis requires energy from sunlight, which is captured by chlorophyll and used to drive the reaction. Therefore, it's an energy-consuming, anabolic process.
Several sources confirm this:
- ScienceDirect: States that "Photosynthesis is often regarded as a CO2 anabolic reaction, whereby glucose is formed from CO2 and water." https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/chemistry/photosynthesis
- Byjus: Clearly states that photosynthesis is "an endergonic and anabolic process." https://byjus.com/question-answer/what-type-of-process-is-photosynthesis-endergonic-and-anabolic-catabolic-endergonic-and-catabolic-amphibolic/
- Biology LibreTexts: Reinforces the concept by explaining that photosynthesis involves the construction of glucose from smaller molecules. https://bio.libretexts.org/Courses/Prince_Georges_Community_College/PGCC_Microbiology/07%3A_Microbial_Metabolism/7.06%3A_Anabolism_of_Glucose-_Photosynthesis
- CK-12: Specifically points out that photosynthesis is "an anabolic process" because it synthesizes complex molecules from simpler ones. https://www.ck12.org/flexi/chemistry/oxidizing-and-reducing-agents/is-photosynthesis-anabolic-or-catabolic/
In short: Photosynthesis uses energy to build larger molecules from smaller ones, making it a clear example of an anabolic pathway. While the light-dependent reactions might seem catabolic in isolating energy, the overall process of glucose synthesis is undeniably anabolic.
