* Carbon dioxide (CO2): The source of carbon atoms used to build sugars.
* Water (H2O): The source of hydrogen atoms and electrons used in the process.
* Sunlight: The energy source that powers the chemical reactions.
* Glucose (C6H12O6): A simple sugar that serves as the primary energy source for the plant.
* Oxygen (O2): A byproduct of the reaction, released into the atmosphere.
Simplified Equation:
```
6CO2 + 6H2O + Sunlight → C6H12O6 + 6O2
```
Explanation:
During photosynthesis, plants absorb carbon dioxide from the atmosphere and water from the soil. Using sunlight as energy, they convert these ingredients into glucose, which is then used for growth and other life processes. The excess oxygen produced during the process is released back into the atmosphere.
