What is photosynthesis?

Photosynthesis is fundamentally the process through which green plants, algae, and some bacteria convert light energy, typically from the sun, into chemical energy stored in glucose. During this process, these organisms take up carbon dioxide from the atmosphere and water from the soil. Using sunlight as the energy source, they then combine these raw materials to synthesize glucose, which serves as food for the plants and any organisms that consume them.

This process occurs primarily in the chloroplasts of plant cells, where chlorophyll—the green pigment—traps sunlight. The overall equation of photosynthesis can be summarized as:

6 CO₂ + 6 H₂O + light energy → C₆H₁₂O₆ + 6 O₂

This not only illustrates how plants produce their own food but also highlights the importance of photosynthesis in contributing oxygen as a byproduct, which is crucial for the survival of most life forms on Earth.

The other options provided describe different biological processes that do not involve the conversion of light energy into chemical energy. Hence, they do not accurately reflect the nature of photosynthesis. The synthesis of glucose through the interaction of sunlight, carbon dioxide, and water captures the essence of what this vital process entails.