Photosynthesis is the process by which green plants, algae, and some bacteria convert light energy into chemical energy, using carbon dioxide and water to produce glucose and oxygen. Here’s a simplified overview of the process:

Light Absorption: Chlorophyll, the green pigment in chloroplasts, absorbs sunlight, primarily in the blue and red wavelengths.

Water Splitting: The absorbed light energy is used to split water molecules (H₂O) into oxygen (O₂), protons (H⁺), and electrons. This occurs in the thylakoid membranes of the chloroplasts.

Oxygen Release: The oxygen produced during water splitting is released into the atmosphere as a byproduct.

Energy Conversion: The electrons and protons generated are used in the light-dependent reactions to convert ADP and NADP+ into ATP and NADPH, which are energy carriers.

Carbon Fixation: In the light-independent reactions (Calvin cycle), which occur in the stroma of the chloroplasts, ATP and NADPH are used to convert carbon dioxide (CO₂) from the atmosphere into glucose (C₆H₁₂O₆) through a series of reactions.

Glucose Formation: The end product, glucose, serves as an energy source for the plant and can be used for growth, reproduction, or stored as starch.