Final answer:
During photosynthesis, CO₂ gains hydrogen atoms and becomes a carbohydrate like glucose. Synthesis of carbohydrates requires energy from sunlight, which is facilitated by ATP.
Step-by-step explanation:
The equation shows that during photosynthesis, CO₂ gains hydrogen atoms and becomes a carbohydrate. The synthesis of any molecule requires energy and during photosynthesis this energy is provided by the sun. Photosynthesis is a process where plants use the energy of sunlight to convert carbon dioxide (CO₂) and water (H₂O) into sugars like glucose (C₆H₁₂O₆), releasing oxygen (O₂) as a byproduct. ATP, or adenosine triphosphate, is the energy currency used during this process to synthesize carbohydrates, which requires an energy input to occur. The most common sugar produced is glucose, which provides energy and carbon essential for the survival of living organisms.