During photosynthesis, food energy is not consumed, but rather created. Here's how it works:

1. Light energy from the sun is captured by chlorophyll in plant cells.

2. This light energy is used to split water molecules (H₂O) into hydrogen ions (H⁺) and oxygen (O₂).

3. The oxygen is released into the atmosphere.

4. The hydrogen ions are used to reduce carbon dioxide (CO₂) from the air into glucose (C₆H₁₂O₆), a simple sugar.

5. Glucose is a form of chemical energy that plants can use for growth and other life processes.

In essence: Photosynthesis converts light energy into chemical energy stored in the bonds of glucose molecules. This process is the foundation of life on Earth, as it provides the primary source of energy for most ecosystems.