Describe is photosynthesis?

The chemical change which happens in the leaves of green plants. It is the first step towards making food - not just for plants but ultimately every animal on the planet.

During photosynthesis:

Light energy is absorbed by chlorophyll, a green substance found in chloroplasts in some plant cells and algaeAbsorbed light energy is used to convert carbon dioxide (from the air) and water (from the soil) into a sugar called glucoseOxygen is released as a by-product

This equation summarises what happens in photosynthesis:

carbon dioxide + water ----sunlight----> glucose + oxygen

MB
Answered by Marie B. Biology tutor

3805 Views

See similar Biology GCSE tutors

Related Biology GCSE answers

All answers ▸

What is cancer?


What does anaerobic mean?


explain how oxygen moves across from the lungs into the blood? how are the lungs adapted for this?


Explain how glucose is made during photosynthesis and how it is utilised by the plant.


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

MyTutor is part of the IXL family of brands:

© 2025 by IXL Learning