What is the main equation for photosynthesis?

The main equation for photosynthesis describes the process by which green plants, algae, and some bacteria convert light energy into chemical energy stored in glucose. The equation states that carbon dioxide and water, in the presence of light energy, produce glucose and oxygen. In simpler terms, the plants take in carbon dioxide from the air and absorb water from the soil, using sunlight to transform these raw materials into glucose, which serves as a source of energy and structural material for the plant, while releasing oxygen as a byproduct.

This fundamental process is crucial for life on Earth as it forms the base of the food chain and also replenishes the atmosphere with oxygen, essential for the survival of aerobic organisms. Understanding this equation is key for studying plant biology, ecology, and the interactions within ecosystems.