Photosynthesis

Photosynthesis is a biological process used by plants, algae, and certain bacteria to convert
light energy into chemical energy stored in glucose. It occurs mainly within the chloroplasts
of plant cells. This process is fundamental for life on Earth as it provides the primary energy
source for nearly all ecosystems and supplies oxygen to the atmosphere.

Photosynthesis can be split into two main stages: light-dependent reactions and the Calvin
cycle (light-independent reactions). In the light-dependent reactions, which take place in the
thylakoid membranes, sunlight energizes electrons that are then used to convert water
molecules into oxygen, protons, and electrons and to generate ATP and NADPH. In the
Calvin cycle, which takes place in the stroma, ATP and NADPH are used to convert carbon
dioxide from the air into organic molecules like glucose. The overall chemical equation for
photosynthesis is generally represented as:
6��2+6�2�+���ℎ�→�6�12�6+6�26CO2+6H2O+light→C6H12
O6+6O2