Photosynthesis is a process used by plants and other organisms to convert light energy into chemical energy that, through cellular respiration, can later be released to fuel the organism's activities.

What is a simple definition of photosynthesis?

Photosynthesis is the process by which plants use sunlight, water, and carbon dioxide to create oxygen and energy in the form of sugar.

What does photosynthesis literally mean?

Plants absorb sunlight and turn that energy into food; the process is known as photosynthesis. This is a compound word made up of photo (which means "light") and synthesis (which means "to put together"). ... A plant uses light to put together chemical compounds and turn them into carbohydrates: food.