_______ is incorporated into life forms through the basic process of photosynthesis which is performed in the presence of Sunlight by all life forms that contain chlorophyll.

The correct answer is Carbon.

Key Points

• Carbon dioxide (CO₂) is fixed into organic compounds through the process of photosynthesis, a crucial biochemical reaction carried out by plants, algae, and cyanobacteria.
• Photosynthesis occurs in the presence of sunlight and utilizes the green pigment chlorophyll, found in chloroplasts of autotrophic organisms.
• During this process, carbon dioxide from the atmosphere combines with water to produce glucose (C₆H₁₂O₆) and oxygen (O₂) as a byproduct.
• The organic carbon synthesized in plants forms the basis of the food chain, supporting all life forms directly or indirectly.
• Photosynthesis is essential for maintaining the carbon cycle on Earth, balancing carbon dioxide levels in the atmosphere.

Additional Information

• Photosynthesis
  • It is a chemical process where plants, algae, and some bacteria convert light energy into chemical energy stored in glucose.
  • The general equation for photosynthesis is:
    6CO₂ + 6H₂O + Light Energy → C₆H₁₂O₆ + 6O₂.
  • The process occurs in two stages: light-dependent reactions and light-independent reactions (Calvin cycle).
  • It is the primary source of oxygen in Earth's atmosphere and is responsible for sustaining aerobic life.
• Chlorophyll
  • A green pigment found in plants and other photosynthetic organisms.
  • It plays a pivotal role in absorbing light, primarily in the blue and red wavelengths, for photosynthesis.
  • The green color of plants is due to chlorophyll's reflection of green light.
• Carbon Cycle
  • The carbon cycle describes the movement of carbon between the atmosphere, biosphere, hydrosphere, and geosphere.
  • Photosynthesis and respiration are key processes that regulate the exchange of carbon between organisms and the atmosphere.
  • Human activities like burning fossil fuels and deforestation are contributing to an imbalance in the carbon cycle, leading to global warming.
• Importance of Photosynthesis
  • It is the primary source of energy for all living organisms, either directly or indirectly.
  • Photosynthesis helps maintain the balance of oxygen and carbon dioxide in the atmosphere.
  • It is critical for the production of food, fuel, and other bio-based materials.