Photosynthesis

Photosynthesis is a process that plants use to turn sunlight into energy. Plants use the energy to grow and help them stay alive. Their leaves, using a special substance called chlorophyll, absorb sunlight and turn it into food energy. The leaves also take in carbon dioxide from the air, and they use water, minerals and energy from the sun to turn the carbon dioxide into a form of food energy called glucose. The plant stores this energy as sugars, starches and other molecules that help it grow and stay healthy. Photosynthesis is an important part of the food chain and helps plants, animals, and humans thrive.