(mÄth'Än') A colorless, odorless, flammable gas that is the simplest hydrocarbon. It is the major constituent of natural gas and is released during the decomposition of plant or other organic compounds, as in marshes and coal mines. Methane is the first member of the alkane series.
In photosynthesis, solar energy is converted to chemical energy. The chemical energy is stored in the form of glucose (sugar). Carbon dioxide, water, and sunlight are used to produce glucose, oxygen, and water.
The ultimate source of energy for photosynthesis is sunlight. Plants convert the light energy into chemical energy in the form of glucose, which they can then use as a source of energy in their cells. Energy is released from glucose by respiration. 13 people found this useful.