Here's a simplified overview:
Photosynthesis Equation:
6CO₂ + 6H₂O + Light Energy → C₆H₁₂O₆ + 6O₂
* CO₂ (Carbon dioxide) is absorbed from the air through tiny openings called stomata on the leaves.
* H₂O (Water) is absorbed from the soil through the roots.
* Light Energy is absorbed by chlorophyll, a green pigment found in leaves.
* C₆H₁₂O₆ (Glucose) is a sugar that acts as food for the plant.
* O₂ (Oxygen) is released as a byproduct.
Key Steps:
1. Light-dependent reactions: Sunlight is captured by chlorophyll and used to split water molecules, releasing oxygen and producing ATP (energy) and NADPH (electron carrier).
2. Light-independent reactions (Calvin cycle): Carbon dioxide is used along with ATP and NADPH to build glucose.
Important Note: Photosynthesis is a continuous process, not a one-time reaction. It's a complex series of biochemical reactions that plants use to convert light energy into chemical energy in the form of glucose, while releasing oxygen as a byproduct.
