What is the name of the process by which plants make their food using sunlight? A) Respiration B) Photosynthesis C) Fermentation D) Transpiration
VerifiedAnswer: B) Photosynthesis
Explanation:
The correct answer is B) Photosynthesis. Photosynthesis is the amazing process through which plants create their own food using sunlight, water, and carbon dioxide from the air. Think of it as nature's kitchen where plants cook up their meals using the sun as their energy source!
During photosynthesis, plants use special green pigments called chlorophyll found in their leaves to capture sunlight. This captured light energy helps convert carbon dioxide from the atmosphere and water absorbed through the roots into glucose (sugar), which serves as food for the plant. As a bonus, plants release oxygen into the air during this process - the very oxygen we breathe!
Let's understand why the other options are incorrect. Respiration is the process where living organisms, including plants, break down glucose to release energy for their daily activities. Fermentation is a process where microorganisms like yeast convert sugars into alcohol or acids without using oxygen. Transpiration is the process by which plants lose water through their leaves, similar to how we sweat to cool down.
The simple equation for photosynthesis can be written as: Carbon dioxide + Water + Sunlight → Glucose + Oxygen. This process is fundamental to life on Earth because it not only feeds plants but also produces the oxygen that all animals need to survive. Without photosynthesis, there would be no food chains and no life as we know it!
