Explanation

Photosynthesis converts light energy into chemical energy: 6CO₂ + 6H₂O + light → C₆H₁₂O₆ + 6O₂. Plants use carbon dioxide and water to produce glucose and oxygen, with sunlight as energy source.

Occurs in chloroplasts containing chlorophyll (green pigment that absorbs light). Light reactions capture energy; dark reactions (Calvin cycle) use that energy to build glucose.

Factors affecting rate: light intensity, CO₂ concentration, temperature, and water availability. Photosynthesis is essential – it produces food and oxygen that most life depends on.