Which combination of items is necessary for photosynthesis to take place?

Photosynthesis is a biochemical process through which plants, algae, and some bacteria convert light energy into chemical energy, resulting in glucose production. The fundamental equation for photosynthesis highlights the requirement for water, carbon dioxide, and sunlight.

Water serves as an electron donor, providing the protons and electrons necessary to power the light reactions of photosynthesis. Carbon dioxide is utilized in the Calvin cycle to produce glucose, which is the end product of the process and serves as an energy source for the plant. Sunlight is the energy source that drives the reactions, allowing plants to convert the absorbed light into chemical energy.

This combination is essential for the photosynthetic pathway to operate effectively, making it the correct answer. Other combinations listed do not include all the necessary components required for this vital process. For instance, oxygen is a byproduct of photosynthesis, not a necessary component, and glucose, while produced during the process, is not required for photosynthesis to occur.