ELI5: Explain Like I'm 5

Light-dependent reaction

Light-dependent reactions are when sunlight is used to turn carbon dioxide and water into glucose and oxygen. This reaction is like food for plants, because the glucose is what they use to make energy. In this reaction, the sunlight provides the energy needed to break apart the molecules of carbon dioxide and water. Then, the energy is used to rearrange the pieces in a new way, making molecules of glucose and oxygen.