Photosynthesis is the process by which green plants, algae, and some bacteria convert light energy into chemical energy, using carbon dioxide and water to produce glucose and oxygen. The overall chemical equation for photosynthesis is:
\[ 6 \text{CO}_2 + 6 \text{H}_2\text{O} + \text{light energy} \rightarrow \text{C}6\text{H}{12}\text{O}_6 + 6 \text{O}_2 \]
In this formula:
- 6 CO₂ represents six molecules of carbon dioxide absorbed from the atmosphere.
- 6 H₂O represents six molecules of water absorbed from the soil.
- Light energy is primarily sourced from sunlight, which drives the reaction.
- C₆H₁₂O₆ is glucose, a simple sugar that serves as an energy source for the plant.
- 6 O₂ represents six molecules of oxygen, which are released as a byproduct into the atmosphere.
This process is crucial for sustaining life on Earth, as it provides oxygen for respiration and forms the base of the food chain.