Photosynthesis is a process through which plants, algae, and some bacteria on Earth produce their own energy. They absorb sunlight through specialized cells called chlorophyll, which captures the energy in light photons. The energy is then used to convert water and carbon dioxide into glucose, a type of sugar that serves as an energy source for the organism. Oxygen is released as a byproduct of this process. Photosynthesis is essential to life on Earth, as it not only provides energy for plants but also generates oxygen for other organisms to breathe.
You are a scientist from a distant planet investigating life on Earth. Explain how photosynthesis works to your fellow alien researchers.