Here's the simplified chemical equation for photosynthesis:
6CO2 + 6H2O + sunlight → C6H12O6 + 6O2
In other words:
* Carbon dioxide and water are taken in by the plant.
* Sunlight provides the energy to drive the reaction.
* Glucose is produced as a source of food for the plant.
* Oxygen is released as a byproduct.
The glucose is used by the plant for:
* Growth and development
* Energy production through cellular respiration
* Storage in the form of starch
The oxygen is released into the atmosphere, which is essential for animal life.
Photosynthesis is the foundation of life on Earth, as it converts light energy into chemical energy that sustains almost all life forms.
