Everything You Need to Know About Photosynthesis

Photosynthesis can be defined as “the process by which plants use sunlight, water, and carbon dioxide to create oxygen and energy in the form of sugar.” It is carried out by plants, algae, and some types of bacteria — and most of life on Earth depends directly or indirectly on it.

The process of photosynthesis begins when water and nutrients are absorbed from the soil into the tree’s root system. These are transported up the tree’s trunk by tube-like cells known as xylem, traveling through the entire tree system to reach the leaves. Once water reaches the leaves, it “circulates” via leaf veins. 

While the water makes its way through the leaves, it also absorbs carbon dioxide from the air. Photosynthesis officially begins when the sunlight hits the leaves. Chlorophyll, a green-pigmented chemical that causes leaves to appear green, captures the sunlight. A pigment is a molecule that has a specific color, and, based on color, can absorb light at different wavelengths.

Once absorbed, carbon dioxide mixes with the water and nutrients pulled from the root system, alongside the chlorophyll and sunlight, producing a sugar-like substance the tree uses as its primary food source. This sugar food is transported through the entire tree, including its trunk, roots, and fruits. Oxygen is released into the atmosphere as a byproduct, providing us with clean air to breathe.

Photosynthesis is a crucial process for plants and people alike. The next time you take a deep breath of fresh air, thank a tree!

The process also helps sustain fruit on the trees, providing nutrients to other living organisms like squirrels and birds. Because of this, photosynthesis is critical to the continuation of natural life.