Photosynthesis: It started life
Photosynthesis is a process by which plants convert sunlight into energy.
It is responsible for all life on earth, including you and me.
If you and I could match the efficiency of a plant, we would need to eat, perhaps once a year. Losing weight would be unnecessary.
So what is so magical about photosynthesis? What can we learn from it?
Photosynthesis uses chlorophyll, a pigment found in plants. Chlorophyll absorbs red and blue light waves and reflects green, giving them the green hue.
While absorbing red and blue waves, it converts sunlight into sugar.
When sunlight falls on a plant, it gives a tiny particle called an electron a boost of energy. Think of it like sunlight kicking an "electron football."
The kick makes the electron jump, leaving an empty spot behind, called a hole. The electron that jumped and the hole are together called an exciton.
Excitons move, carrying energy to produce sugar.
All of this happens in fractions of seconds so fast that it is unimaginable.
Why does all of this matter to us?
Photosynthesis is responsible for the origin of life on earth. It produces oxygen, while converting sunlight into energy, which allowed mammals such as you and me to evolve.
We eat plants to consume the carbon produced either directly or indirectly through the consumption of meat.
It does not stop there.
Not only do plants give us energy, they are also capable of absorbing noxious chemicals from our environment.
They absorb carbon dioxide, but also absorb benzene, formeldehyde and volatile compounds from paint.
Many of these chemicals are found within your home and in the atmosphere.
It is winter in the northern hemisphere and cities are groaning under the burden of pollution.
One solution is to look out of your window at the humble plant growing.
Find a way to use plants and their incredible talents to produce energy, release oxygen and remove harmful chemicals all at the same time.
Reach out to me on twitter @rbawri Instagram @riteshbawriofficial and YouTube at www.youtube.com/breatheagain
