What is photosynthesis?

• A. Process of turning carbon dioxide and water into simple carbohydrates and oxygen
• B. The breakdown of glucose to release energy
• C. The absorption of nutrients from soil
• D. The release of carbon dioxide by respiration

Answer: (A)

Photosynthesis is the process by which green plants capture light energy and use it to convert carbon dioxide and water into glucose, a simple carbohydrate, with oxygen released as a byproduct. In the leaves, chlorophyll drives a light-powered chemical reaction that builds sugar from CO2 and H2O, storing energy in the form of chemical bonds. This stored energy fuels tree growth and metabolism, and the oxygen produced becomes available to the atmosphere. The other statements describe different processes: breaking down sugar to release energy is respiration; nutrient uptake is a root function; and releasing carbon dioxide by respiration is the opposite of photosynthesis.