1) Photosynthesis is the process by which plants use energy from sunlight, carbon dioxide from the air, and water and minerals from the soil to produce oxygen and glucose (food). 2) Chlorophyll in the leaves absorbs sunlight and carbon dioxide enters through stomata, while water moves up from the roots through the xylem. 3) Through a chemical reaction that converts light energy to chemical energy, oxygen is released and glucose is produced as food for the plant.