photosynthesis

UK: ˌfəʊ.təʊˈsɪn.θə.sɪs | US: ˌfoʊ.toʊˈsɪn.θə.sɪs

Definition

  1. n. The process by which green plants and some other organisms use sunlight to synthesize nutrients from carbon dioxide and water, producing oxygen as a byproduct.

Structure
photo <light>syn <together>thesis <placing>
Etymology

The word "photosynthesis" combines Greek morphemes:

  • "photo" (from Greek phōs, meaning "light") refers to sunlight as the energy source.
  • "syn" (from Greek syn-, meaning "together") signifies the combination of elements.
  • "thesis" (from Greek thesis, meaning "placing" or "arrangement") denotes the process of assembling compounds.
    The term was coined in the late 19th century to describe the light-driven synthesis of organic compounds in plants, reflecting the scientific understanding of the process.
Examples

  1. Photosynthesis is essential for plant growth and oxygen production.

  2. Without photosynthesis, most life on Earth would not exist.

  3. Scientists study photosynthesis to improve agricultural efficiency.

  4. Algae perform photosynthesis underwater using sunlight penetrating the surface.

  5. The rate of photosynthesis increases with optimal light and carbon dioxide levels.