Photosynthesis is the process by which green plants and some other organisms convert light energy into chemical energy. This chemical energy is stored in glucose (a sugar), which is synthesized from carbon dioxide and water. The process requires light energy (usually from the sun), carbon dioxide (from the atmosphere), water (from the soil), and the green pigment chlorophyll, which absorbs the light energy. It primarily takes place in the chloroplasts within plant cells, and oxygen is released as a gaseous byproduct. The overall balanced chemical equation for photosynthesis is: 6CO₂ + 6H₂O + Light Energy → C₆H₁₂O₆ + 6O₂ This process is fundamental for life on Earth, as it produces food for most ecosystems and maintains the oxygen levels in the atmosphere, which is essential for respiration. That's 2 down. 3 left today — send the next one.