Meaning & Definition of word "Photosynthesis"

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.