Feeding the trees

6CO2 + 6H2O —> C6H12O6 + 6O2

Sounds simple, right? It's called photosynthesis and you better thank it because the reaction taking place there is effectively responsible for all life on this tiny blue dot we call Earth.

That might sound a touch dramatic but it is very much true. Photosynthesis is a process that not only provides the food for a plants growth, but also gives off nearly half of the oxygen found in our atmosphere- which is kind of a big deal. 

But how does it work? Here is a very simple guide to the wonder of tree food:

1. Light shines down upon the leaves of a plant, which uses the chlorophyll cells found in its leaves to trap the energy stored in the light.
2. Water is absorbed by the roots of the plant and carried up to the leaves by the xylem inside the plant
3. Carbon dioxide is also absorbed by the leaves, this time through the stomata.
4. Now all the elements required photosynthesis to take place are available, the process begins.
5. By using the energy from sunlight, the eaves are able to produce glucose from the carbon dioxide and water. This glucose feeds the plants and helps it grow.
6. Another, and vitally important, part of this change is that oxygen is given off into the air as it takes place, allowing humans to live.

The image below gives a very simple description of the process of photosynthesis in plants, but for those who truly wish to push the boundaries of their understanding of this life giving process, check out the video HERE.