Here's the balanced equation for photosynthesis using common terms:

Carbon Dioxide + Water + Light Energy → Glucose + Oxygen

Let's break it down:

* Carbon Dioxide (CO2): A gas plants absorb from the air.

* Water (H2O): Water absorbed through the plant's roots.

* Light Energy: Energy from sunlight.

* Glucose (C6H12O6): A sugar that is the plant's food.

* Oxygen (O2): A gas released by the plant into the air.

So, in simpler words: Plants use carbon dioxide, water, and sunlight to create their food (sugar) and release oxygen as a byproduct.