Meaning & Definition of word "Photosynthesis"

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    Photosynthesis

    /ˌfoʊtəʊˈsɪnθəsɪs/

    noun:

    • 1. The process by which green plants, algae, and some bacteria convert light energy, usually from the sun, into chemical energy stored in glucose, using carbon dioxide and water.
      • Example: Photosynthesis is crucial for life on Earth as it provides oxygen and organic matter.
    • 2. A key biological process that supports the growth of plants and the production of food.
      • Example: The efficiency of photosynthesis affects plant growth and agricultural yield.
    • 3. A process through which energy conversion occurs in the chloroplasts of plant cells.
      • Example: Photosynthesis takes place in the chlorophyll-containing chloroplasts within plant cells.

    Etymology

    Derived from the Greek words 'photo-' meaning light and 'synthesis' meaning putting together.

    Common Phrases and Expressions

    photosynthetic efficiency:

    A measure of how effectively plants convert light energy into chemical energy.

    carbon fixation:

    The process of converting inorganic carbon (CO2) into organic compounds by photosynthesis.

    Related Words

    chlorophyll:

    The green pigment found in plants that is crucial for photosynthesis.

    autotroph:

    An organism capable of synthesizing its own food from inorganic substances.

    Slang Meanings of photosynthesis

    Meaning: Plant food production

    Example Sentence: Those plants are doing their photosynthesis thing!

    Meaning: Nature's energy factory

    Example Sentence: Those trees are like nature's photosynthesis factories.