What is photosynthesis?

Photosynthesis is a crucial biological process through which plants, algae, and certain bacteria convert light energy, typically from the sun, into chemical energy in the form of glucose. During this process, plants take in carbon dioxide from the atmosphere and water from the soil, utilizing sunlight to drive the chemical reactions that produce glucose and oxygen as byproducts. This transformation is essential for the growth and development of plants and is foundational for life on Earth, as it also supports various ecosystems by providing energy to herbivores and, subsequently, to higher trophic levels.

The other choices do not accurately describe photosynthesis. Cellular respiration is a separate process where organisms convert glucose into usable energy, while animals obtain energy mainly by consuming other organisms rather than through photosynthesis. Additionally, nutrient absorption in soil pertains to how plants absorb minerals and nutrients, which is a different process from converting sunlight into chemical energy.