Final answer:
Photosynthesis is the biological process where plants use sunlight, carbon dioxide, and water to produce glucose and oxygen. This energy conversion is essential for life on Earth and supports the food chain.
Step-by-step explanation:
The process of using energy from sunlight to produce glucose from carbon dioxide and water is known as photosynthesis. This intricate and essential biological process requires sunlight, carbon dioxide, and water as inputs. Through a series of steps, plants convert these materials into glucose, a form of sugar that acts as a source of energy, and oxygen, which is released as a byproduct. The general chemical equation representing photosynthesis is 6CO2 + 6H2O + Energy → C6H12O6 + 6O2, showcasing how carbon dioxide and water transform into glucose and oxygen with the help of solar energy.
Photosynthesis is integral to life on Earth, as it forms the basis of the food chain by providing an energy source for plants, which in turn support animals and other organisms. Additionally, the oxygen released during the process of photosynthesis is vital for the survival of most species that require it for cellular respiration.