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Everything You Need to Know About Photosynthesis

by Gabrielle Clawson ● April 16, 2024 ● 2 min read

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Photosynthesis 101

Spring has sprung, and the longer, brighter days bring new life and growth as many plants and animals emerge from a dormant winter state. As the world around us grows greener by the day, the phenomenon of photosynthesis is working beneath the surface.

With life blooming all around us, let’s dive into what exactly photosynthesis is and its importance to the natural world.

What Is 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.

How Does Photosynthesis Work?

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.

Why Is Photosynthesis Important?

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.

Planting trees is a great way to help secure the foundation of life on Earth. Support reforestation today!

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Gabrielle Clawson

Gabrielle helps with fundraising and marketing, working with peer-to-peer fundraising as well as business fundraising. With experience in both women's rights and climate change organizations, she has a strong passion for non-profits and is excited to make an impact in the world through environmental change!