Light energy, usually from the sun, is converted into chemical energy in the glucose. The process takes place in chloroplasts, especially in the palisade cells of leaves. Chloroplasts contain a green substance called chlorophyll that absorbs the light that makes the reaction work.
To turn glucose into proteins, fats and other substances, plants must take in minerals (e.g. nitrates, phosphates, calcium, magnesium). Root
hair cells take in minerals dissolved in water in the soil. Plants need many different minerals but the most important are nitrates, phosphates and potassium. Farmers spread fertilisers on their field to provide these minerals.
Conditions that affect the rate of photosynthesis: water, light, temperature, carbon dioxide and minerals
