A simple definition and explanation of photosynthesis
Photosynthesis is the process by which green plants and some other organisms use sunlight to synthesize food from carbon dioxide and water. This process is vital for the survival of most living organisms on Earth, as it produces oxygen as a byproduct and provides energy for plant growth and metabolism.
During photosynthesis, plants absorb sunlight through their chlorophyll-containing cells in their leaves. This energy is used to convert carbon dioxide from the air and water from the soil into glucose, a type of sugar that serves as food for the plant. Oxygen is released as a byproduct of this chemical reaction, which is essential for the respiration of animals and other organisms that require oxygen to survive.
Overall, photosynthesis can be thought of as the primary means by which energy from the sun is converted into a usable form for plants and other living things. It is a crucial process in the Earth's ecosystem as it forms the basis of the food chain and helps maintain the balance of gases in the atmosphere.