Photosynthesis is a process used by plants and other organisms to convert light energy into chemical energy that can later be released to fuel the organisms' activities. This chemical energy is stored in carbohydrate molecules, such as sugars, which are synthesized from carbon dioxide and water.

Photosynthesis occurs in two main stages:

1. Light-dependent reactions: Light energy is captured and used to split water molecules, producing oxygen, protons, and electrons.
2. Light-independent reactions (Calvin Cycle): The energy from the light-dependent reactions is used to convert carbon dioxide into glucose (sugar).

The basic equation for photosynthesis is:

6CO₂ + 6H₂O + Light Energy → C₆H₁₂O₆ + 6O₂

Where:

• CO₂ = Carbon dioxide
• H₂O = Water
• Light Energy = Sunlight
• C₆H₁₂O₆ = Glucose (sugar)
• O₂ = Oxygen

More information can be found at:

• Science Learning Hub - Photosynthesis
• Britannica - Photosynthesis