The process by which glucose is formed from carbon dioxide and water is known as photosynthesis. This vital process occurs in the chloroplasts of plant cells, where sunlight energy is harnessed to convert carbon dioxide and water into glucose and oxygen. The overall equation for photosynthesis illustrates this conversion: 6CO₂ + 6H₂O + light energy → C₆H₁₂O₆ + 6O₂. Photosynthesis is essential for life on Earth, as it provides the primary source of energy for nearly all organisms and plays a crucial role in the carbon cycle.