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Why is Photosynthesis Important?

Answer – Photosynthesis is important as it converts energy from the sun into a form that is usable by life forms, and because it is a major means of replenishing the atmosphere’s oxygen.

Explanation:

Photosynthesis is the process by which plants bind atoms of carbon, hydrogen and oxygen into molecules of glucose. The energy to create these bonds comes from sunlight. Here, light energy is converted into a form of chemical energy that can be used as fuel by plants themselves, and by other organisms when they consume plants. 

Photosynthesis is a driver of the food chain. And most usable forms of energy captured on Earth are due to this process. The energy held in fossil fuels too comes from it. 

At the same time, oxygen is a byproduct of the process of photosynthesis. This is another outcome of the process that is important for all life forms. Atmospheric oxygen is a vital requirement for most organisms to live. It is needed for respiration, the process by which glucose is broken down into energy. By being a major means of replenishing it in the atmosphere, photosynthesis proves its importance – it provides both, a chemical product containing energy, and one of the major ingredients needed to make that energy available and usable.

Thus, photosynthesis is highly significant for life on earth.


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