The ultimate source of energy in the food we eat is the Sun. This energy is captured through the process of photosynthesis, where plants convert sunlight into chemical energy by synthesizing glucose from carbon dioxide and water. When animals consume plants or other animals, they obtain this stored chemical energy. Additionally, even though fossil fuels and other energy sources are used in food production, ultimately, the original energy that supports life on Earth is derived from solar energy.
What is the ultimate source of energy in the food we eat?.
11 answers
The ultimate source of energy in the food we eat is the Sun, as it drives photosynthesis in plants, which store solar energy as chemical energy.
Photosynthesis varies by season, with most plants actively growing and photosynthesizing during spring and summer when sunlight and temperatures are optimal, leading to increased carbon dioxide uptake, while in fall and winter, the reduced growth rates and photosynthetic activity result in a rise in atmospheric carbon dioxide levels.
Photosynthesis varies significantly between environments, with rainforests experiencing high rates of photosynthesis due to abundant water and sunlight, while deserts have lower rates of photosynthesis due to limited water availability and extreme temperatures, resulting in adaptations such as CAM (Crassulacean Acid Metabolism) in certain plants to conserve water.
Photosynthesis gets its energy to start from sunlight.
The Calvin cycle occurs in the stroma of chloroplasts, and it does not need direct light to operate.