1. Sunlight: Plants use sunlight as their primary energy source.
2. Chlorophyll: They have a green pigment called chlorophyll in their leaves, which absorbs light energy.
3. Carbon Dioxide: Plants take in carbon dioxide from the air through tiny openings called stomata on their leaves.
4. Water: Plants absorb water from the soil through their roots.
5. Chemical Reaction: Inside the leaves, the absorbed light energy is used to convert carbon dioxide and water into glucose (a type of sugar) and oxygen. This chemical reaction is the core of photosynthesis.
The glucose produced acts as the plant's food. It provides the chemical energy needed for growth, repair, and other life processes. The oxygen is released back into the atmosphere as a byproduct.
In simpler terms, plants use sunlight to turn carbon dioxide and water into their own food (glucose) and release oxygen. This process is essential for the survival of all living things on Earth!
