Photosynthesis

Photosynthesis (photo=light, synthesis=putting together), generally, is the synthesis of triose phosphates (and ultimately starch, glucose and other products) from sunlight, carbon dioxide and water. Oxygen is also produced, as a result of splitting water. It is arguably the most important biochemical pathway known; nearly all life depends on it. It is an extremely complex process consisting of many coordinated biochemical reactions. It occurs in higher plants, phytoplankton, algae, some bacteria, and some protists, organisms collectively referred to as photoautotrophs.