Which of the following best summarizes the process of photosynthesis?

• A. The absorption of nutrients from the soil by plant roots
• B. The breakdown of glucose to release energy in the presence of oxygen
• C. The movement of water through a plant from roots to leaves
• D. The conversion of light energy, water, and carbon dioxide into glucose and oxygen

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Begin by understanding the concept of photosynthesis. Photosynthesis is the process by which plants, algae, and some bacteria convert light energy into chemical energy stored in glucose molecules.
2. Step 2: Identify the key components involved in photosynthesis. These include light energy (usually from the sun), water (H₂O), and carbon dioxide (CO₂). These are the reactants in the process.
3. Step 3: Recognize the products of photosynthesis. The process results in the formation of glucose (C₆H₁₂O₆), a sugar molecule that serves as energy storage, and oxygen (O₂), which is released as a byproduct.
4. Step 4: Understand the chemical equation for photosynthesis: $6_{}\mathrm{CO}{2}_{}+6_{}H{2}_{}O\to C_{}{6}_{}{H}_{}{\mathrm{12}}_{}{O}_{}{6}_{}+6_{}O{2}_{}$. This equation summarizes the conversion of light energy, water, and carbon dioxide into glucose and oxygen.
5. Step 5: Clarify that photosynthesis occurs in the chloroplasts of plant cells, specifically within the thylakoid membranes where light-dependent reactions take place, and the stroma where the Calvin cycle (light-independent reactions) occurs.