But so far the study of photochemical reactions has not resulted in the creation of either proteins or hydrocarbons in the laboratory. And it is these compounds that are the primary products of photosynthesis in plants.

    At the initial stage the plant uses only carbon dioxide, water and solar light for the synthesis of very complex organic molecules.

    But maybe there is something else that plays a part in these processes? 

    Imagine a factory with soda, petroleum, potassium nitrate, etc., being fed through pipes at one end and lorries loaded with bread, sausage, and sugar driving out of its gates at the other end. This is fantasy, of course, but it is just about what happens in plants.

    Plants have been found to have their catalysts, called enzymes. Each enzyme makes a reaction proceed only in a definite direction.

    It appears that the Sun accomplishes photosynthesis not as the sole "chemist," but in collaboration with his colleagues, the enzymes (catalysts). The Sun supplies the energy needed for the reaction and the enzymes make the reaction go in the right direction.

    Though we cannot as yet deprive nature, and particularly plants, of their "patents" for the production of many substances, but in some cases we can already make them operate in the direction we need. 
 

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