Photosynthesis

/ˌfoʊtəʊˈsɪnθəsɪs/

Meaning & Definition

noun

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.

Photosynthesis is crucial for life on Earth as it provides oxygen and organic matter.

A key biological process that supports the growth of plants and the production of food.

The efficiency of photosynthesis affects plant growth and agricultural yield.

A process through which energy conversion occurs in the chloroplasts of plant cells.

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

Plant food production

Those plants are doing their photosynthesis thing!

Nature's energy factory

Those trees are like nature's photosynthesis factories.