What is the definition of photosynthesis?

The definition of photosynthesis being the process by which plants convert sunlight into food is fundamental to understanding how plants sustain themselves and grow. During photosynthesis, plants utilize sunlight, carbon dioxide from the air, and water from the soil to produce glucose, a type of sugar that serves as their food, and oxygen, which is released as a byproduct. This process primarily occurs in the chloroplasts of plant cells, where chlorophyll captures solar energy.

Understanding photosynthesis is crucial as it highlights the role of plants in the ecosystem, not only as producers of food for themselves but also as a primary source of energy for other organisms. This ability to convert light energy into chemical energy is a key reason why plants are vital to life on Earth. The other choices relate to different aspects of botany and plant biology but do not accurately capture the essence of what photosynthesis is.