Photosynthesis is the process by which plants utilize sunlight to convert carbon dioxide and water into organic compounds-which are then stored within the plant-while simultaneously releasing oxygen. Photosynthesis not only provides the plant itself with the matter and energy it requires, but also generates the oxygen essential for the survival of humans and animals.
Photosynthesis comprises two distinct stages: the light-dependent reactions and the light-independent reactions (or dark reactions). The light-dependent reactions occur under conditions of light, during which chlorophyll within the leaves absorbs light energy to generate high-energy compounds while releasing oxygen. The light-independent reactions can proceed even in the absence of light; in this stage, the high-energy compounds produced during the light-dependent reactions are utilized to synthesize absorbed carbon dioxide into organic compounds, which are subsequently stored within the plant.
