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# The big picture
Photosynthesis lets plants turn light energy into chemical energy stored in sugars.

# Inside the leaf
A leaf is a tiny solar-powered workshop. Its structure helps it capture light, exchange gases, and turn energy into something the plant can use.

## Meet the chloroplast
> [!DEFINITION]
> Chloroplasts are the organelles where photosynthesis takes place. They contain chlorophyll, the pigment that absorbs light.

## Two stages, one process
**Light-dependent reactions:** Light energy is absorbed by chlorophyll, splitting water molecules and releasing oxygen, while converting light energy into chemical energy.

**The Calvin cycle:** Uses the chemical energy from the first stage to fix carbon dioxide into glucose, a sugar the plant can use for growth and energy.

> [!TIP] Key takeaway
> Photosynthesis links light energy to life, through a remarkable series of steps inside the leaf.

# Light to energy
The overall equation connects carbon dioxide, water, light, glucose, and oxygen.

$$6\,CO_2 + 6\,H_2O \xrightarrow{\text{light}} C_6H_{12}O_6 + 6\,O_2$$

> [!EXAMPLE]
> Pondweed placed in bright light gives off small bubbles of oxygen.

# A quick recap
Chlorophyll captures light. The light-dependent reactions release oxygen. The Calvin cycle helps build sugars.

> [!WARNING] Common mistake
> Plants respire day and night. Photosynthesis does not replace respiration.