The process by which plants make their own food using sunlight is called photosynthesis.
What is Photosynthesis?
Photosynthesis is a chemical process that plants use to convert light energy from the sun into chemical energy stored in glucose (a type of sugar). This glucose provides energy and building material for the plant to grow.
How Does Photosynthesis Work?
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Light Absorption:
Chlorophyll, the green pigment in plant leaves, absorbs sunlight. -
Water and Carbon Dioxide Intake:
Plants take in water (H₂O) through their roots and carbon dioxide (CO₂) from the air through tiny pores in their leaves called stomata. -
Chemical Reaction:
Using the energy from sunlight, plants convert water and carbon dioxide into glucose (C₆H₁₂O₆) and oxygen (O₂). -
Oxygen Release:
Oxygen is released into the air as a byproduct.
The Photosynthesis Equation
6 CO2+6 H2O+light energy→C6H12O6+6 O26,CO_2+6,H_2O+\text{light energy}\rightarrow C_6H_{12}O_6+6,O_26CO2+6H2O+light energy→C6H12O6+6O2
This means six molecules of carbon dioxide and six molecules of water, using light energy, produce one molecule of glucose and six molecules of oxygen. If you want, I can also explain the stages of photosynthesis or its importance!
