The process that powers nearly all life on Earth
Photosynthesis is often described as one of the most important biochemical processes on the planet, since it is ultimately responsible for both the oxygen in Earth's atmosphere and the vast majority of the energy that flows through food chains, from the smallest insect to the largest whale.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do plants perform photosynthesis at night?
No β photosynthesis requires light energy to occur, so it stops at night; plants instead perform cellular respiration continuously, both day and night, to convert stored glucose into usable energy.
Why do leaves change color in autumn?
As autumn approaches and daylight decreases, many trees break down and reabsorb their chlorophyll, which reveals the yellow and orange pigments that were present in the leaf all along but were previously masked by the dominant green chlorophyll.